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US Army Receives First UH-60MX, Version of Black Hawk with MATRIX System, Capable of Operating Without Pilots and Controlled by Tablet
The US Army has received the first UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter capable of flying without pilots. Called the UH-60MX, the model can be controlled by an external operator via tablet, enhancing autonomy in high-risk missions.
Model Delivery
According to Sikorsky, the delivery of the UH-60MX represents a milestone in the Army’s pursuit of an open architecture, supporting mission and optionally piloted flight capability.
Rich Benton, Vice President and General Manager of Sikorsky, stated that the Army now has a tool aligned with the Army Transformation Initiative to enhance and qualify pilot-supported autonomy.
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How the Helicopter System Works
Optionally piloted aircraft receive the MATRIX suite, a set of systems that combines sensors, advanced algorithms, and automation to enable different levels of autonomy in the Black Hawk.
In practice, the technology can control the aircraft independently, perform takeoffs, navigate in complex environments, and execute landings without direct human intervention, as well as respond to threats and obstacles in real-time.
Test Results
According to the manufacturer, tests with the UH-60MX demonstrated the capability to execute logistical and operational missions in challenging scenarios, reducing the crew’s workload or eliminating the need for pilots on board.
The proposal is to enhance safety and efficiency in high-risk operations, such as refueling in combat zones or aeromedical evacuation under enemy fire.
Next Developments
The integration of MATRIX is part of a broader effort by the US Army to incorporate autonomy into its platforms, within the concept of manned and unmanned operations together.
According to Sikorsky, the delivery of the UH-60MX reinforces the trend of digitization and automation in the modern battlefield and can be applied to other Black Hawk aircraft and future projects.
With information from Technology and Defense.
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