MQ-20 Avenger strike UAVs taught to operate in swarms and without an operator
The special software that controls the drones adapts to unforeseen mission circumstances to ensure that the drones tactically perform their tasks.
Scientific Systems has developed a special software platform for the legendary MQ-20 Avenger drones, which can now operate in swarm mode, according to the company’s official press release. Now, several reconnaissance drones can perform various combat missions under a single control.
Scientific Systems’ group behavior of drones was realized using several technologies, including:
- a distributed flight control system that allows Avenger drones to communicate with each other and coordinate their actions;
- a positioning and navigation system that allows Avenger drones to accurately determine their location and the position of other objects;
- an artificial intelligence system that allows Avenger drones to make decisions on how to perform tasks.
These technologies allow Avenger drones to work together to perform complex tasks such as reconnaissance, surveillance and tactical strikes “without the need for human intervention.” UAVs can move freely across the battlefield, avoid obstacles and communicate with each other, making them a powerful tool for warfare.
As part of the experiment, Avenger drones were divided into two groups. One group of drones was responsible for reconnaissance and surveillance, and another group of drones was responsible for strikes. The Avenger drones flew freely, avoided obstacles, and exchanged data with each other, just as the developers had planned. The demonstration showed that the MQ-20 Avenger can be used to perform tasks that are too dangerous or too complex for manned aircraft.
The special software from Scientific Systems, a division of General Atomics (which created the MQ-20 Avenger drones), adapts to unforeseen mission circumstances, such as mission system failures, communication breakdowns, and combat losses due to enemy actions. Algorithms make decisions very quickly and independently, and this can change the outcome of a battle when every split second counts. Such software has previously been demonstrated on a scale of up to 30 combined UAVs, in experiments with 5 live and 25 virtual platforms.
The MQ-20 Avenger is a multifunctional drone that not only performs reconnaissance, but can also strike enemy vehicles with powerful Hellfire missiles. The Avenger can reach a maximum speed of 740 km/h and stay in the air for up to 20 hours.
