US AFRL tests MuSICA software
The US Air Force Research Laboratories (AFRL) has completed a round of flight tests of the Multiple Sensor Integrated Conflict Avoidance (MuSICA) standard collision avoidance software.
The tests conducted on the Northrop Grumman-led Multiple Intruder Autonomous Avoidance (MIAA) programme demonstrate the maturity of the Department of Defense's (DoD) MuSICA software.
The MIAA programme is an AFRL applied research and advanced development programme that is developing and demonstrating Sense and Avoid (SAA) technology to provide UAS with the ability to automatically detect and avoid collisions with other airspace users.
The flight tests used a Learjet programmed to fly like an autonomous Global Hawk UAS while equipped with a SAA system. The flight test configuration included updated MuSICA software that incorporated the definition of 'well-clear' recently defined by the DoD Science and Research Panel and modified by RTCA SC-228 to automatically manoeuvre the jet with sufficient margin to remain well clear of other airborne traffic.
Paul Schaeffer, programme manager for airborne SAA, air force, said: 'The MIAA programme evolved from concept into a successful SAA hardware demonstration.
'I am pleased that MuSICA was able to positively execute and maintain the RTCA SC-228 definition of 'well-clear' with single and multiple cooperative and non-cooperative Federal Aviation Administration-supplied aircraft. This multi-levelled partnership team transformed research and development standards that are already benefiting our nation.'
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
![Ready for the race: Air separation drone swarms vs. air defence systems]()
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]()
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]()
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]()
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]()
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]()
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.
