Avionics
U.S. Air Force Steps Up Backing for Autonomous Flight Technology
Reliable Robotics wins contract and new funding as rival Merlin steps up flight testing
Reliable Robotics autonomous flight technology
The U.S. Air Force is assessing autonomous flight technology like the system in development by Reliable Robotics for possible use on aircraft such as the KC-135. © U.S. Air Force/Joe Jones

The U.S. Air Force (USAF) is continuing to back efforts to develop autonomous flight technology through a pair of new contracts for Reliable Robotics. On September 16, the California-based company announced the award of an Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract for possible applications of its navigation and “always on” autopilot systems on airlift and refueling aircraft.

Under the flexible contract, Reliable Robotics will continue its work with the USAF, including through its existing partnership with the Afwerx unit of the Air Force Research Laboratory. It follows last week’s announcement that Afwerx is extending previous Small Business Innovation Research funding with new backing through the Tactical Funding Increase program.