Milestone Reported in Air Force Automation Feasibility Study

Reliable Robotics was contracted earlier this year to explore the feasibility of automating operations of large, multiengine jets, such as the KC-135 Stratotanker.

Kimberly Johnson

Friday, October 06, 2023 at 12:09 PM ET

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In February, the Mountain View, California-based aircraft automation firm was contracted by the U.S. Air Force to explore the feasibility of automating large, multiengine jets, such as the KC-135 Stratotanker refueler. [Courtesy: Reliable Robotics]

Key Takeaways:

Reliable Robotics has achieved a key milestone in a U.S. Air Force study investigating the automation of large, multi-engine jets to reduce pilot requirements.
The study found that existing airframes can accommodate their Remotely Operated Aircraft System (ROAS) with modest adjustments, enabling continuous autopilot engagement supervised by a remote pilot.
Automating existing aircraft offers the Air Force increased logistical speed and scale, enhanced operational flexibility and safety, and a reduced human footprint without requiring new aircraft manufacturing.

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A study underway investigating the automation of Air Force aircraft operations as a means of reducing pilot requirements has achieved a key milestone, according to Reliable Robotics.