AeroVironment (AV) has expanded its AV_Halo mission software suite with two new capabilities designed to improve decision-making in contested and electronically degraded environments.
At the recent SOF Week 2026 event in Florida, the company introduced the AV_Halo INSTINCT autonomy framework and the AV_Halo DETECT radio-frequency (RF) sensing system.
Both are intended to enhance autonomy across a range of missions, including intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, loitering strike, and counter-unmanned aerial systems.
“In an era of contested communications and proliferated autonomy, advantage goes to the force that can decide and act faster at the edge,” said Wahid Nawabi, president and chief executive officer of AV.
“INSTINCT and DETECT fundamentally change that equation… This is about compressing the time from detection to action while preserving mission effectiveness in the most challenging environments.”
Both capabilities are available now and can be configured for a range of operational needs.
AV_Halo INSTICT
Developed with military experts, INSTINCT reduces operator workload by shifting focus from platform control to mission objectives.
It features conversational tasking and integrates with AV_Halo MENTOR to support training and tactics development through mission-based simulations.
The system uses a modular architecture designed to enable faster integration and deployment on platforms with limited size, weight, power, and cost constraints.
According to AV, INSTINCT has proven its performance during major US military operations across contested, multi-domain environments.
AV_Halo DETECT
DETECT is built to extend unmanned platform capabilities through advanced communications and mission support functions.
It integrates with AV_Halo COMMAND to enable faster autonomous responses driven by real-time threat perception.
The system includes AI-driven RF detection for automatic threat identification, alongside scalable layered security that enhances existing perimeter defenses.
Engineered to operate under electronic attack, DETECT supports integration with radar, cameras, access control systems, and broader command-and-control networks.
