General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), in collaboration with the US Air Force, has performed an autonomous mission out of Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California using its MQ-20 Avenger unmanned jet and an F-22 Raptor equipped with the latest government reference autonomy software.
“We appreciate the flawless execution of this mission using the government’s advanced autonomous systems,” GA-ASI President David Alexander, stated.
“This demo featured the integration of mission elements and the ability of autonomy to utilize onboard sensors to make independent decisions and execute commands from the F-22.”
The test, which showcased Manned-Unmanned Teaming between the F-22 and MQ-20, has used autonomy and the tactical data link to enable coordination between the platforms.
The mission has included a live engagement between the MQ-20 and the F-22 as the command aircraft flown by an onboard human pilot, highlighting the ability to receive and execute teaming commands.
The demonstration has showcased Manned-Unmanned Teaming and rapid software integration between the MQ-20 and the F-22, and a tactical data link used for communication and coordination between military platforms.
The MQ-20 has exchanged messages with the F-22, and the F-22 was able to send autonomy commands to the MQ-20 via the Autonodyne Bashi Pilot Vehicle Interface (PVI), directing the MQ-20 to execute tactical manoeuvres and adjust waypoints, and perform Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and airborne threat engagement tasks.