The US Air Force has signed a contract with Reliable Robotics to install an autonomous control system for a regular Cessna 208b Caravan aircraft. The goal is to check how unmanned aircraft can perform routine cargo flights without pilots.
The Reliable Autonomy System (Ras) system does not depend on the aircraft model and can be installed on different types of aircraft. For the military, this is especially important: the technology will allow you to perform more missions without involving expensive pilots and reduce risks for people.
The new program is associated with the concept of Agile Combat Employment (ACE), which involves quick and flexible support of troops at different points.
In addition to Cessna, RAS is planned to be tested on the KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft.