Autonomous Resupply for Field Artillery

Sustained resupply of munitions to heavy artillery systems presents a persistent challenge to gun crews. We propose a fast, robust, and automated aerial resupply system that can safely deliver munitions and other supplies to artillery positions, increasing firing cadence and reducing soldier workload. The resupply vehicle will use autonomous capabilities to fly safely in dynamic battle environments while requiring minimal attention from soldiers. The aerial delivery system will operate with or without GPS, avoiding unexpected obstacles en route and in the landing area, precisely depositing its load within feet of the desired delivery point. The delivery point can be designated with either GPS coordinates or with portable beacons that can be quickly deployed to changing pick-up and drop-off points. The aircraft and its support equipment will fit within a standard twenty-foot shipping container, enabling organic deployment. In Phase II, a surrogate vehicle capable of lifting at least 150 pounds over 1 kilometer will demonstrate end-to-end autonomous delivery of munitions. Concurrently, we will demonstrate a transition vehicle capable of delivering 150 pounds over 10 kilometers, with a pathway to full autonomy as well.