Agentic AI took center stage in a new MQ-20 Avenger drone demonstration focused on real-time mission adaptation and tactical decision-making.
During the event, operators in Virginia used the cloud-based Optix.C2 command-and-control system to coordinate with an MQ-20 flying in California.
The drone began an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) mission by autonomously patrolling a designated Combat Air Patrol (CAP) zone.
Using data from land and space sensors, Optix.C2 identified a potential target beyond line of sight, alerted the operator, and recommended an ISR mission to continue monitoring the object.
After operator approval, the aircraft’s onboard autonomy software, Tactical Autonomy Core Ecosystem (TacACE), generated an optimized flight path to support the mission.
While en route, offboard sensors detected a pop-up threat. TacACE selected a revised course of action and updated the mission plan in real time, enabling the Avenger to complete the task and return to the CAP zone without further operator input.
The demo highlighted how agentic AI can support complex operations by integrating onboard processing with distributed sensor data to enable autonomous mission planning and adaptation.
Mission Platform
Developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), the MQ-20 Avenger can reach speeds of up to 460 miles per hour (740 kilometers per hour) and operate at altitudes of 50,000 feet (15,240 meters).
Designed with a streamlined fuselage to help reduce its radar signature, the drone can carry up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kilograms) of external payload.
It is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PW545B turbofan engine and is equipped with electro-optical/infrared sensors, synthetic aperture radar, and satellite communications for reconnaissance and data transmission.
The platform can also be configured to carry a range of munitions, including AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs, and GBU-38 JDAM munitions.
