US-based defense robotics company Allen Control Systems (ACS) has launched an Innovation Lab to fast-track the development of autonomous weapon systems.
The initiative aims to address the growing need for precision technologies capable of neutralizing unmanned threats across multi-domain battlefields.
To lead the effort, the company has tapped Alex Clark, a veteran in counter-unmanned aerial systems, autonomy, and sensor integration. Clark previously served as Senior Director of Advanced Innovations at BlueHalo, where he specialized in cutting-edge defense solutions.
As ACS’s new Head of Innovation, he will lead a cross-disciplinary team tasked with designing scalable, AI-powered defense systems that adapt to modern conflict environments.
“ACS is tackling the kind of complex, high-consequence challenges that define the future of defense,” Clark said. “Counter-UAS is a layered, multi-domain problem — solving it demands unconventional thinking and engineering agility.”
AI-Powered Systems for Modern Warfare
The Innovation Lab will focus on systems built for contested environments, with an emphasis on autonomous decision-making, machine learning, and high-precision targeting.
The goal: speed up concept-to-field timelines while reducing the burden on human operators.
At the center of the company’s portfolio is Bullfrog, a robotic weapon station designed to transform legacy and modern firearms into autonomous precision systems.
Unlike traditional remote weapon stations operated by an analog joystick, Bullfrog enables real-time, AI-guided engagement for faster response and enhanced accuracy.
ACS President and co-founder Steve Simoni said the new lab reflects a growing urgency to deliver battlefield-ready tech as unmanned threats continue to rise.
“We are doubling down on our commitment to build the weapons systems that the US and our allies will need for the conflicts of the future,” Simoni said.
“Alex’s proven record of scaling complex defense technology programs and his deep engineering and technical expertise, make him the ideal innovation leader. Alex shares our commitment to building the weapons systems we need to meet the threats of tomorrow.”
