Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Package known as The Lakota

Airbus and Shield AI Develop Autonomous Logistics Helicopter for US Marine Corps

The US Marine Corps (USMC) is set to receive an innovative addition to its logistics capabilities, as Airbus and Shield AI partner to develop the MQ-72C Logistics Connector. This unmanned variant of the UH-72 Lakota helicopter will leverage Shield AI's Hivemind autonomy software to enable autonomous flight and mission capabilities across a wide range of logistics and operational scenarios.

Building on Proven Technology

The MQ-72C is based on the Airbus H145 platform, a multi-mission helicopter widely used in training and utility lift roles for the US Army. Airbus announced plans to develop this unmanned variant in 2024, and the first autonomous flight was successfully completed in August 2025.

Autonomous Capabilities

The key enabler of autonomy is the Hivemind AI software from Shield AI, known for its adaptability and mission improvisation. This software has previously been demonstrated in Pentagon air combat experiments. The autonomy level will be progressively scaled through further testing to enable operations in contested logistics environments.

Mission Applications

The MQ-72C aims to perform unmanned logistics connector missions, enhancing the USMC's ability to conduct autonomous aerial resupply and transport of materials in varied operational environments without putting personnel at risk. It is designed to support a wide range of logistics missions, potentially extending autonomy capabilities to other helicopter variants as well, thereby increasing operational flexibility and reducing workload on manned platforms.

The adaptability and AI-driven mission autonomy could enable the MQ-72C to operate in contested and complex environments, increasing the robustness of USMC logistical support and operational reach.

Expanding Capabilities

The development of the MQ-72C emphasizes extending an already versatile and reconfigurable helicopter platform into the unmanned domain, combining proven airframe technology with cutting-edge AI autonomy to expand mission capabilities for the USMC. The Lakota's flexibility, based on a proven Airbus platform, allows it to perform a wide range of missions that it couldn't do before.

The UH-72 Lakota is currently being adapted to fly unmanned missions for the USMC, with ongoing testing validating its autonomous flight and mission control capabilities using advanced AI software. The project will leverage technologies from previous platforms where appropriate to accelerate its progress into the field.

An unmanned Lakota can carry a 2,000-pound missile reload, 2,000 pounds of air-launched effects, electronic warfare systems, or any other necessary equipment. The Lakota's versatility is particularly useful for unmanned operations, as it can adapt to any H145 operation and more.

Looking Forward

The next phases of the project will involve system integration, ground tests, and flight tests over the next couple of years. Airbus has already fielded unmanned naval rotorcraft in Europe, which should aid in the smooth integration of the unmanned Lakota into operations. Lessons learned from Airbus' range and demonstrators will benefit the development of the unmanned Lakota.

The project involves turning a traditional control system into a fly-by-wire aircraft that a computer can control. The use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in vertical lift operations is generating increasing interest. Airbus' approach should facilitate a smoother integration into operations compared to clean sheet designs.

The integration of Airbus' range of versatility into a UAS is a challenge, as noted by Carl Forsling, Senior Manager, Business Development and Strategy. However, the potential benefits to the USMC in terms of logistical support, operational flexibility, and reduced risk of human loss in high-threat environments make this a worthwhile endeavour.

The use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in vertical lift operations is a significant step forward for the USMC, and the MQ-72C Logistics Connector represents a promising solution to meet the demands of modern warfare.