With a research project to demonstrate and analyze the AI components required for swarms of tactical UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) in a real scenario, the Planning Office of the Bundeswehr the companies Airbus Defense and Space, Quantum Systems and Spleenlab. The project is entitled KITU 2 (Artificial Intelligence for Tactical UAS) and is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Defense. The focus of the study is on the effectiveness of tactical UAS.
Airbus will contribute proven swarm algorithms, simulation environments and experimental hardware as well as other required AI building blocks to the research. Quantum Systems will deliver the combat-proven Vector 2-in-1 tactical airborne reconnaissance platform with built-in AI edge computing capabilities. The 2-in-1 platform enables heterogeneous swarms as it can be deployed as a fixed-wing eVTOL Vector or a multicopter Scorpion UAS, and with its three-hour flight endurance, it enables challenging and real-world missions. Spleenlab brings a great deal of expertise to the project in the field of AI edge software for swarms, object recognition and robust navigation methods in environments with high communication density. Other programs also benefit from the research results
In the gn the joint Main Ground Combat Systems (MGCS) program between France and Germanywhich has been in existence since 2018, the two countries are working on a new weapon system that is intended to expand the defensive and offensive capabilities of battle tanks on the battlefield by integrating next-generation technologies and multiple platforms. https://militaeraktuell.at/spatenstich-bei-rheinmetalls-f-35-fabrik/ A second program is also being developed, Future Combat Air System (FCAS), between these two countries and Spain also involves the development of a system consisting of new-generation manned combat aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles and new weapons and communication systems. Both programs aim to bring cross-platform and cross-vehicle swarming to the battlefield and will therefore benefit from the results of the KITU-2 program. Swarming enables a multiplication of forces by controlling multiple UAS with a reduced ground or air crew. In addition, initial studies from the ongoing war in Ukraine have shown that multiple smaller and less expensive UAS could be more effective in providing aerial reconnaissance results from the battlefield, as larger areas can be covered simultaneously and losses can be more easily mitigated.
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