Airbus U.S. and Shield AI achieve milestone autonomous helicopter test

Working with Shield AI’s Hivemind software, Airbus U.S. tested mission autonomy on an H145 in preparation for Marine Corps logistics operations.

Airbus U.S. Space & Defense has carried out its first autonomous helicopter test flight using Shield AI’s Hivemind autonomy package, marking a step in the development of the MQ-72C Lakota Connector for the U.S. Marine Corps’ Aerial Logistics Connector programme.

The flight was conducted with an H145 helicopter in Grand Prairie, Texas, to refine the mission technology, advance schedule timelines, and reduce risk. The integration of Hivemind into the aircraft was completed in less than two months, demonstrating the efficiency of its modular architecture.

The H145 flew under Shield AI’s autonomy software working with Airbus’ Helionix, with the system carrying out auto takeoff, landing, and other test points without pilot input. These functions will be incorporated into the MQ-72C helicopter design to meet USMC requirements.

“This flight test is a testament to the strength of our ALC team and opens the aperture on new mission possibilities to support the Marine Corps,” says Rob Geckle, chairman and CEO of Airbus U.S. Space & Defense.

Shield AI CEO Gary Steele adds: “Hivemind was built to enable adaptable, intelligent flight across a wide range of aircraft, and this milestone shows how quickly capable teams can leverage that foundation.”

Further test activity will expand the MQ-72C’s level of autonomy towards full unmanned operations in contested environments. Airbus U.S. is in the second year of the Aerial Logistics Connector rapid prototyping programme and has received a Phase I contract from NAVAIR to develop the UH-72-based logistics platform.