Overview

• The partnership will combine Merlin’s autonomy and vehicle-management software with GE’s flight management systems and open architecture to create a scalable pilot-assist and uncrewed platform.
• Initial integration is planned through the U.S. Air Force’s KC-135 Center Console Refresh program as a first step toward autonomy on refueling and transport aircraft.
• Merlin is pursuing FAA Part 25 airworthiness and supplemental type certificates while using Part 135 operations in New Zealand as an operational sandbox for retrofit testing.
• GE’s installed flight management base on more than 14,000 aircraft positions the autonomy core for broader deployment across military and civil fleets.
• The announcement comes as the Air Force evaluates competing autonomy solutions, including an August purchase of Reliable Robotics technology for a Cessna 208B retrofit.