In a groundbreaking achievement, Honeywell and Near Earth Autonomy have completed the first autonomous flight of a Leonardo AW139 helicopter, advancing the U.S. Marine Corps’ Aerial Logistics Connector (ALC) initiative. This successful demonstration validates the potential of uncrewed, autonomous aircraft to operate safely in contested areas without human pilots or remote control.
The May test flight, conducted in Phoenix, Arizona, represents a pivotal step in creating scalable, autonomous logistics for the Marine Corps. The flight saw Near Earth’s autonomy software seamlessly manage key autopilot functions of the AW139, achieving accurate autonomous flight with no pilot intervention.
The ALC program, executed under a Naval Aviation Systems Consortium OTA with Near Earth Autonomy as the prime, is focused on fielding autonomous aerial logistics platforms that minimize personnel exposure and enhance rapid supply chain capabilities. Future tests will expand on autonomy features like automated obstacle detection and avoidance, along with integration into broader military logistics systems.
Honeywell, in collaboration with Near Earth Autonomy, is working to provide a cost-effective, scalable autonomy solution for both current and future aircraft, accelerating the transition to uncrewed and highly autonomous aviation missions.
