Merlin secures $8.9m to advance C-130J autonomous flight technology

Merlin has received a $8.9 million task order from US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) to develop autonomous flight technology for the Lockheed Martin C-130J aircraft. This funding will specifically support efforts aimed at automating certain flying tasks within the C-130J program. The goal is to reduce crew workload and enable potential operation with fewer personnel onboard the military transport plane. Merlin’s work focuses on advancing the capabilities of this particular platform through automation. This development represents an important step in modernizing air operations and enhancing mission effectiveness for US special operations forces.