Merlin Labs has completed the preliminary design review (PDR) for its autonomous flight system designed for the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules used by US Special Operations Command. The review confirmed the integration design and airworthiness approach, allowing the program to move into the critical design phase. The project aims to develop a reduced-aircrew aircraft that improves operational flexibility and safety for special operations missions. Under a $104-million contract awarded in August 2024, the program will continue with system integration, ground testing, and flight demonstrations. Merlin’s AI-powered autonomy stack is expected to enable advanced automation capabilities that could eventually be applied across the wider special operations fixed-wing aircraft fleet.
