What is the story about?
What's Happening?
BAE Systems and Qinetiq are testing the use of the Link 16 datalink to command autonomous collaborative platforms (ACPs) in a synthetic environment. This initiative, part of Project Hera, involves using Link 16 to communicate with a swarm of drones and uncrewed aircraft systems, such as the Eurofighter Typhoon and Qinetiq Banshee drones. The goal is to enable these platforms to operate autonomously by interpreting high-level commands from the datalink, potentially increasing operational capacity without additional development hurdles.
Why It's Important?
The successful integration of Link 16 with autonomous platforms could significantly enhance NATO's air fleet capabilities by allowing for more efficient and autonomous operations. This development is crucial for modernizing military operations and maintaining strategic advantages. The use of existing datalink infrastructure like Link 16 could expedite the deployment of ACPs, reducing the need for extensive new technology development and facilitating quicker integration into current military systems.
What's Next?
Future steps may include live trials and further collaboration with the UK Ministry of Defense and the Defense Science and Technology Laboratory. These efforts aim to refine the technology and explore its potential applications in real-world scenarios. The ongoing development could lead to enhanced interoperability between crewed and uncrewed systems, paving the way for more advanced military operations.
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