Marine Corps AW139 Helicopter Autonomy Test
- Near Earth Autonomy achieved a milestone in May with the first autonomous test flight of a Leonardo AW139 helicopter.
- The company stated that this marked the first time an AW139 had flown autonomously.
Near Earth Autonomy successfully completed the initial autonomous flight of a Leonardo AW139 helicopter—a significant step for the U.S. Marine Corps. This pivotal test, conducted in Arizona, is a key element of the Aerial Logistics Connector (ALC) program, actively exploring the autonomous helicopter capabilities for enhanced logistics. This marks the first-ever autonomous flight of the AW139, bolstering the Marine Corps‘ logistical prowess. News Directory 3 reports on innovations in this developing field. The tests are designed to analyze how autonomous flight can support and optimize the Marine Corps’ aerial logistics role. This technological advancement will have a huge impact on effectiveness. Discover what’s next.
Autonomous Helicopter Tests Support Marine Corps Aerial Logistics Role
Updated June 17, 2025
Near Earth Autonomy achieved a milestone in May with the first autonomous test flight of a Leonardo AW139 helicopter. This test, conducted in Phoenix, Arizona, is part of the U.S. Marine Corps’ Aerial Logistics Connector (ALC) program. The autonomous helicopter role is being explored too enhance logistical capabilities.
The company stated that this marked the first time an AW139 had flown autonomously.