Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, has successfully demonstrated the unmanned UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, equipped with the advanced MATRIX system designed to transform manned helicopters into drones without significant modifications.
The demonstration was part of the U.S. Marine Corps’ Airborne Logistics Connector program. The program aims to explore how drones can reliably deliver logistics in challenging combat scenarios.
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Transforming Helicopters into Drones with MATRIX
The MATRIX system, funded and enhanced by DARPA, was originally created to improve the safety of manned helicopter flights. It has evolved to include advanced functionalities, enabling: – Full remote control of the helicopter; – Creation of a “virtual pilot” to reduce the crew required to just one person; – Execution of complex missions, such as internal and external cargo transport, without humans on board.
According to Rich Benton, Vice President and General Manager of Sikorsky, “Vehicles equipped with the MATRIX system can perform a wide range of complex missions safely and reliably, without the need for onboard operators.”
One of the key innovations of the system is its intuitive interface. Marines can quickly adjust flight missions using special tablets, making the system adaptable to field needs.
AI in Aerial Combat and Human-Machine Collaboration
The demonstration of the unmanned Black Hawk follows a recent milestone by Lockheed Martin. In November, the company’s secretive Skunk Works division conducted a mission demonstration where a pilot in command of an L-39 Albatros gave orders to two L-29 Delfin aircraft controlled by artificial intelligence.
During this offensive simulation, the aircraft collaborated to destroy two simulated enemy targets using simulated weapons. This advancement is part of a series of tests conducted in 2024 aimed at integrating artificial intelligence into aerial combat. AI can now send commands directly to autopilots, demonstrating advanced decision-making and coordination capabilities.
Future Implications for Defense
The success of the unmanned UH-60 Black Hawk highlights the growing adoption of autonomous technologies in military operations. The flexibility and safety offered by the MATRIX system could redefine how logistics and combat missions are carried out, reducing risks for human operators and expanding the capabilities of armed forces.
Source and images: Lockheed Martin. This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team.