Lockheed Martin updates aerial ISR test bed

Lockheed Martin has updated its Airborne Multi-INT Lab, which is a flying ISR test bed.

The AML, a modified Gulfstream III business jet, has received software and hardware updates, including the aircraft's onboard processing capability for sensor data.

"The AML now has an autonomous sensor control mode that can coordinate operations between the testbed's various onboard sensors," according to a Lockheed Martin news release. "This mode allows operators to focus on mission planning and operational issues while detailed execution is handled autonomously."

"Also integrated into the testbed's mission system was a cognitive processing capability that enables rapid adaptation to a changing target environment," the company said. "In addition, the AML's open, 'plug-and-play' architecture was upgraded to extend the system's ability to integrate with existing ground architectures. This open architecture allows additional new software and hardware to be integrated in a matter of hours."

More In ISR

The Pentagon’s ‘Replicator’ drone bonanza faces an uncertain future

At stake is the military's ability to adjust to the future of war and compete with China, its main rival.

Kendall floats F-35 successor, casts 2050 vision for Air Force

The Air Force and Space Force "need to go through a transformation" by 2050, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said on the eve of his departure.

Italy eyes Musk’s Starlink for secret government communications

Handing control of Italy’s military satellite communications to the U.S. tech tycoon has prompted sharp criticism in Italy from opposition politicians.

Space Development Agency validates high-speed satellite comm links

During a demo, York Space Systems and SpaceX connected two of their satellites via a laser communication link, proving a key technology for SDA.

Pentagon picks Kratos for hypersonic testbed program

Through MACH-TB 2.0, the Pentagon wants to significantly increase the number of hypersonic test flights.