Northrop selected for OFFSET programme
Northrop Grumman has been selected as a Phase 1 Swarm Systems Integrator for DARPA's Offensive Swarm-Enabled Tactics (OFFSET) programme, the company announced on 13 February.
The company will launch an open architecture test bed as part of the programme, and is seeking participants to create and test their own swarm-based tactics on the platform.
Under the programme, Northrop Grumman will design, develop and deploy a swarm-system, open-based architecture for swarm technologies in both a game-based environment and physical test bed. The team will develop tactics and technologies to test on the architecture and is responsible for engaging a wider development and user audience through rapid technology-development exercises known as swarm sprints.
OFFSET intends to provide small-unit infantry forces with small UAS or small UGVs in swarms of 250 or more. These swarms will be able to support diverse missions in complex urban environments. OFFSET seeks to advance the integration of modern swarm tactics and leverage emerging technologies in swarm autonomy and human-swarm teaming.
Approximately every six months, DARPA plans to invite proposals from potential sprinters in one of the five thrust areas – swarm tactics, swarm autonomy, human-swarm teaming, virtual environment and physical test bed. The end of each sprint will coincide with live physical test experiments with DARPA, the systems integrator team and other sprinters.
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
Ready for the race: Air separation drone swarms vs. air defence systems
As the dynamics of aerial combat rapidly evolve, Chinese scientists have engineered a sophisticated air separation drone model that can fragment into up to six drones, each capable of executing distinct battlefield roles and challenging the efficacy of current anti-drone defences such as the UK’s Dragonfire laser system.
-
Israel’s MALE UAVs ‘must adapt’ to Iranian-made air defences
Advancements in air defence technologies have begun to reshape aerial combat dynamics in the Middle East, as illustrated by recent events involving the Israeli Air Force and Hezbollah.
-
Hundreds more UAS sent to Ukraine forces with thousands more on the way
Both sides of the Russia-Ukraine war have been using UAS for effective low-cost attacks, as well as impactful web and social media footage. Thousands more have now been committed to Ukrainian forces.
-
AI and software companies selected for US Army Robotic Combat Vehicle subsystems
The US Army has intentions to develop light, medium and heavy variants of the Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) as part of the branche’s Next Generation Combat Vehicle family.
-
DroneShield to improve software of DroneSentry-X C-UAS system under new contract
DroneSentry-X, a cross-vehicle compatible, automated 360° C-UAS detect and defeat device, can offer 360° awareness and protection using integrated sensors. According to its manufacturer, it is suitable for mobile operations, on-site surveillance and on-the-move missions.
-
Ukraine takes delivery of new indigenous C-UAS systems
Funded by the country’s former president, the new C-UAS systems will be sent to the frontline where they have already been tested against Russian invading forces.