The Georgia Institute of Technology’s Vertical Lift Research Center of Excellence (VLRCOE) and RMS Aerospace have entered into a strategic partnership to develop an AI-enabled unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for the U.S. Army and federal government.  

RMS is an engineering firm highly specialized in aerial and maritime combat systems, with offices in Texas and Georgia. This partnership combines VLRCOE’s strengths in rotorcraft aeromechanics and advanced configurations with RMS’ operational defense and applied systems engineering expertise to address a critical need for the U.S. Army.

The military has phased out or retired other drone vehicles, including the MQ-1 Gray Eagle, RQ-7 Shadow, and OH-58 Kiowa Warrior. Deploying a new AI-powered UAV can take over the intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions typically flown by those older UAVs. 

The new UAV, called e-Scout, will be designed to fly autonomously by algorithms and to execute advanced mission operations in dangerous areas while supporting frontline troops. 

“Georgia Tech is committed to the advancement of advanced vertical lift technologies that extend traditional research and development in collaboration with industry to ensure rapid technology transfer to both civilian and military operations,” said Marilyn Smith, VLRCOE director and professor in the Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering. “This partnership will enable us to apply the unique synergy of research and education in VLRCOE to support the U.S. military.”

As advanced air mobility (AAM) continues to evolve in the aerospace industry, this sector will require a different type of engineer to keep up with its convergence of aerospace, AI, and edge technology. 

“This is a unique opportunity for the Daniel Guggenheim School students and faculty to participate in a first-generational aeronautical program with significant military-to-commercial technology transfer,” said Smith.