Boeing Australia progresses with AI-enabled Albatross

Boeing Australia has conducted successful experiments in which unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) have been able to detect and act upon simulated targets.

Using machine learning techniques, Boeing Australia says it has been able to teach a UAV how to detect a target, make a decision, and take action.

“We’ve been developing machine learning techniques in the lab environment with multiple unmanned aircraft,” says Emily Hughes, director of Boeing Phantom Works International.

“We’ve effectively taught the unmanned systems to behave and learn using simulations, so they can detect a target in the real world, and then make a decision to act or react to the environment.”

In addition to identifying and classifying targets, the UAVs were able to perform route planning, and also coordinate with both unmanned and manned platforms.

The work was conducted in partnership with Australia’s Trusted Autonomous Systems Defence Collaborative Research Centre (DCRC).

“What’s particularly critical for this project is the unmanned systems’ ability to achieve these objectives in missions where conditions are degraded or in a denied environment,” says Professor Jason Scholz, chief executive officer of the DCRC for Trusted Autonomous Systems.

“Projects such as the one we’ve pursued with Boeing continue to grow our knowledge and understanding of artificial intelligence, and furthers the Australian government’s advancement in trusted autonomy.”

About Applied Aeronautics

Applied Aeronautics is a US-based UAV manufacturer, specializing in the design and manufacturing of affordable, long-range composite drones. Applied Aeronautics’ flagship product, The Albatross, is an electric fixed wing UAV designed for use in most industries, ranging from agriculture and research to disaster management and defense. This entirely customizable solution was engineered for accessibility, to meet the growing demand for a professional UAV that married robust capabilities with an affordable price point. For more information, please visit http://www.AppliedAeronautics.com

Source Article: https://www.flightglobal.com/military-uavs/boeing-australia-progresses-with-ai-enabled-uavs/140092.article