The partnership between Quantum Systems and Airbus Defence and Space The collaboration is part of a research contract awarded to the two companies by the Bundeswehr Planning Office. The third partner is the machine learning startup Spleenlab from Thuringia. The aim of the project is to demonstrate and analyze AI building blocks necessary for the deployment of swarms of tactical drones (UAS, Unmanned Aircraft Systems) in a real-world scenario. The project, titled KITU 2 (Artificial Intelligence for Tactical UAS), is funded by the German Ministry of Defense. The focus of the study is on the effectiveness of tactical UAS.
Quantum Systems is contributing its Vector drones to the cooperation. electronic reconnaissance drone with the ability to take off and land vertically (eVTOL). Vector can be used with either a fixed wing or as a multicopter. The drone has a flight time of up to three hours and features built-in AI edge computing capabilities. Since Quantum Systems already numerous Vector systems delivered to the Ukrainian armed forces The drones are also considered battle-tested. Quantum Systems is currently working on a strategy for a system family, with smaller and larger platforms expected to be launched in the coming years.
How Airbus and Spleenlab complement Quantum Systems' drones
Airbus Defence and Space will complement the Munich-based startup's hardware with swarm algorithms and simulation environments. The defense company will also contribute additional experimental hardware and additional required AI components. Spleenlab, in turn, will contribute its expertise in AI edge software for swarms. This also includes object recognition and robust navigation methods in environments with high communication density.
The results of the KITU-2 research program are also expected to benefit other armament programs that also rely on the use of swarms. These include the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS), which has been promoted by Germany and France since 2018. It aims to expand the defensive and offensive capabilities of main battle tanks on the battlefield through the integration of new technologies and multiple platforms. And the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), developed by Germany, France, and Spain, aims to link next-generation manned combat aircraft with unmanned aircraft, as well as new weapons and communications systems.
