Mon, Aug 22, 2011
Lockheed Martin, Kaman Aerospace To Collaborate On The
Project
The U.S. Army has awarded a $47 million contract for the
development, demonstration, and delivery of autonomous technologies
for unmanned air systems in support of in-theater unmanned cargo
resupply missions to Lockheed Martin. Under the contract, Lockheed
Martin and Kaman Aerospace will demonstrate intelligent autonomous
technologies for unmanned aerial systems using the K-MAX helicopter
platform.
K-MAX File Photo
The Army's Aviation Applied Technology Directorate is investing
in mature technologies that will enhance unmanned cargo resupply
capabilities by improving autonomous operations, increasing
delivery accuracy and reducing ground control station operator
workload. Prior to being deployed for cargo resupply
missions, the technology will be demonstrated in an operationally
realistic environment on the unmanned K-MAX.
"Lockheed Martin's experience, resources and proven K-MAX
platform will allow us to meet the Army's objectives," said Dan
Spoor, vice president of Aviation Systems at Lockheed Martin
Mission Systems & Sensors. "We are eager to develop and
demonstrate the latest autonomous technologies using the mature and
low-risk K-MAX platform."
The 6,000 lb power lifter can fly at a higher altitude with a
heavier payload than any other rotary wing unmanned system. With
its four-hook carousel, the unmanned K-MAX can also deliver more
cargo to more locations in one flight.
Since partnering in 2007, Lockheed Martin and Kaman Aerospace
have made significant investments to provide a rapid response to an
urgent military service need. The team has met all milestones to
date and recently began electromagnetic environmental effects
testing at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, MD, as part of the
Navy and Marine Corps Cargo Unmanned Air Systems program.
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