Airbus will utilize L3Harris’ robust digital backbone with integrated command and control nodes. Combined with their modular open systems approach, the infrastructure enables the U.S. Marines to rapidly integrate third-party, commercial off-the-shelf hardware that will enable maximum system versatility and mission adaptability.
Robert Geckle, Chairman and CEO, Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, said “Our MQ-72C platform is capable of supporting the warfighter on a range of unmanned operations that will support the future fight. Partnering with a proven systems integrator opens the aperture on what our aircraft can do operationally in contested and austere environments.”
This partnership will allow the Marines’ mission sets to evolve over the next several years and will enable more advanced levels of systems integration across the Marine Corps and broader joint force.
Jason Lambert, President, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, L3Harris, said “We are focused on accelerating development to get this capability into the hands of military personnel. With more than 60 years of experience in aircraft systems integration, L3Harris brings proven expertise developing complex mission system design and integration to enhance operational effectiveness in contested environments.”
The Airbus team is entering the second year of the Aerial Logistics Connector Middle Tier of Acquisition Rapid Prototyping Program, which aims to provide the service with aircraft prototypes to demonstrate capabilities to the warfighter through a series of operational demonstrations and experiments.
The Aerial Logistics Connector effort is one of several across the Department of Defense to deliver logistical support in distributed environments during peer or near-peer conflicts.
About L3Harris Technologies : L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) is the Trusted Disruptor in the defense industry. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.
About Airbus U.S. Space & Defense : Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, a trusted U.S. government partner, delivers industry-leading solutions for satellite, geospatial intelligence, cybersecurity, secure communications, space exploration, military helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, and fixed-wing aircraft. We offer state-of-the-art technologies, extensive research and development, and subject matter expertise to provide the U.S. Department of Defense, National Security Agencies, and Space-focused partners with optimal solutions for their critical missions.
Aerial Logistics Connector Middle Tier of Acquisition Rapid Prototyping Program
The program aims to provide the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) with aircraft prototypes to demonstrate capabilities for aerial logistics support, particularly in contested and austere environments during "peer or near-peer conflicts."
The goal is to deliver logistical support in distributed environments without risking human lives.
This program falls under the "Middle Tier of Acquisition (MTA) Rapid Prototyping Program." This acquisition pathway emphasizes quickly developing and fielding prototypes to demonstrate new capabilities and meet emerging military needs.
Airbus has already conducted program demonstrations, evaluating the UH-72B Lakota's performance and its ability to carry specialized cargo.