US Army tests next-gen autonomous Anduril's Ghost-X Unmanned Aircraft System.

From February 23 to March 20, 2024, the U.S. Army evaluated the unmanned aircraft system (UAS) Ghost-X during Project Convergence – Capstone 4 (PC-C4) at Fort Irwin, California. Developed by Anduril Industries, Ghost-X represents the latest advancement in the autonomous Ghost drone series, designed to meet the stringent requirements of reconnaissance, security, and force protection missions.
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Next-Generation Autonomous Anduril's Ghost-X Unmanned Aircraft System (Picture source: Anduril)

Ghost-X stands out for its portability and ease of deployment across various operational environments. Engineered for expeditionary use, the system can be compacted into a slim rifle case or a tactical soft case, enabling a single operator to assemble and prepare it for flight in less than two minutes without the need for tools. This user-friendly design is complemented by its durability, as Ghost has demonstrated the ability to fly in challenging weather conditions.

At the heart of Ghost-X's technology lies its advanced autonomy. Equipped with onboard computing and computer vision algorithms, the drone autonomously detects, classifies, and tracks objects of interest while intelligently navigating terrain and airspace. This autonomy is crucial for tactical operations where speed and accuracy of information can be game-changing.

Ghost-X's unique design allows for versatile flight profiles, balancing efficient hover and cruise capabilities. Combined with a robust payload capacity and a reduced acoustic signature, Ghost-X is particularly suited for multi-mission operations in diverse environments. Additionally, its modular design offers great flexibility in payload mounting, enabling operators to tailor the drone to various missions.

The Ghost X is an exceptional piece of technology designed for tasks requiring high endurance and substantial payload capacity. It boasts an impressive endurance of 75 minutes on a single cruise, making it suitable for extended operations in a variety of environments. With a range of 15.5 miles (25 km), it can cover significant distances without the need for frequent recharging or refueling, enhancing its operational flexibility. The Ghost X can carry payloads up to 20 lbs (9 kg), a notable feature for missions requiring the transportation of equipment or materials. When equipped with dual batteries, weighing in at 55 lbs (25 kg), it is relatively portable for a device of its capabilities, ensuring it can be deployed quickly and efficiently in the field. This combination of endurance, range, payload capacity, and manageable weight makes the Ghost X a versatile and valuable tool for a wide range of defense and security applications.

Project Convergence – Capstone 4 served as a critical platform to assess how technologies like Ghost-X can be integrated into the U.S. Army's modernization efforts and formations. Collaborating with units such as the 316th Cavalry Brigade and the 82nd Airborne Division, the event highlighted the potential of autonomous systems to enhance traditional military operations.

With Ghost-X, Anduril Industries continues to push the boundaries of defense innovation, providing the U.S. Army with cutting-edge tools to address 21st-century security challenges. The success of this evaluation underscores the growing importance of autonomous drones in military strategy, promising a shift towards smarter, safer, and more efficient operations.