Airbus’ innovation division, UpNext, has successfully tested its autonomous in-flight refueling technology named Auto’Mate. In collaboration with the Airbus Defence and Space business unit, the technology aims to automate the aerial refueling process to advance military force projection and enhance flight safety and operational efficiency.
The Auto’Mate technology represents a fully autonomous in-flight refueling system, part of Airbus’s broader efforts to explore innovative projects. It has proven its potential in Autonomous Assets Air to Air Refuelling operations, flying alongside unmanned drones under the guidance of an A310 MRTT tanker.
An advanced relative navigation system using artificial intelligence and cooperative control technologies allows the technology to automate in-flight refueling without human intervention. As the system guides and controls the refueling process, it facilitates increased safety, reliability, and efficiency, as well as the ability to operate in low-visibility conditions.
The development of Auto’Mate is driven by three vital technological foundations: navigation, communications, and control. Using cameras, high-precision satellite global positioning, LiDAR sensors, and AI, the technology has achieved unprecedented position accuracy.
The Airbus A330 MRTT, equipped with the Auto’Mate technology, is positioned as a leader in the multi-role tanker transport sector. Orders for the A330 MRTT have been received from various countries, underscoring the growing interest in autonomous in-flight refueling technology.
As Airbus continues to push the boundaries of innovation, the success of Auto’Mate represents a leap forward in autonomous in-flight refueling technology.
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