Defense technology firm, Anduril Industries, revealed today that it has secured two contracts, collectively worth $8 million, from the U.S. Air Force. The contracts focus on bolstering the autonomy capabilities of Anduril’s Ghost platform, along with its latest variant, Ghost-X. The Ghost system is an autonomous uncrewed aircraft designed primarily for reconnaissance, security, and force protection roles.
In partnership with the Air Force's AFWERX initiative, Anduril's Ghost will contribute to the mission of evolving technology to address rapidly changing global threats. The collaborative approach will allow Air Force personnel to seamlessly integrate government software with the open architecture autonomy stack of Ghost. This adaptability ensures that the technology remains aligned with shifting requirements in both command strategy and the dynamics of the battlefield.
The Ghost platform employs Anduril’s Lattice software, designed to automate several essential tasks, such as mission planning, airspace coordination, and flight operations. Such automation aims to decrease the mental demands and training requirements for those operating the system. Ghost's adaptable design means that operators can easily incorporate a variety of modular mission payloads, from sensors and communications equipment to navigation tools.
The introduction of the Ghost-X variant comes after extensive feedback gathered from over 1,000 flight hours of the Ghost system. These flights, undertaken by a diverse set of users across various conditions—including active combat zones, have informed the enhancements seen in Ghost-X. With improved flight performance, a modular payload system, and heightened resilience in tough operational conditions, Ghost-X represents the continued commitment of Anduril to provide cutting-edge autonomy for diverse missions.