The Future of Autonomous Defense Capabilities

Modern military operations demand split-second decisions, complex coordination and resilient systems capable of performing in high-stakes environments. With a legacy rooted in innovation, Honeywell is leading the way in autonomous defense capabilities, helping military organizations optimize mission performance, reduce human risk and respond faster to evolving threats.

According to Matt Milas, President of Defense & Space at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, "Autonomy is a force multiplier for the warfighter — enhancing situational awareness, reducing pilot workload and enabling sharper focus on mission success and operational safety."

Autonomy and the Military Mission

Autonomous and semi-autonomous unmanned vehicles can shorten the kill chain, reduce risk for warfighters and provide defensive capabilities against the growing threat of unmanned autonomous actors. Advanced technologies are critical for maintaining strategic superiority and adapting to modern threats. Some examples include:

• Crew-optional systems: Aircraft like F-16s can be modified to fly autonomously or with pilots, as needed
• Swarm tactics: Coordinated unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarms execute distributed missions with real-time autonomy
• Tactical AI: Real-time sensor fusion enables autonomous platforms to detect, identify and respond to threats faster than human operators
• CUAS (Counter-UAS): Systems to detect and neutralize hostile drone incursions without direct human control
• Autonomous logistics: Rotorcraft and fixed-wing UAVs deliver supplies or evacuate casualties in high-risk environments

Overall, unmanned platforms cost less to acquire and to operate, making them ideal for precision strikes, electronic warfare and ISR missions in hostile environments.

Enabling the Future of Autonomous Military Systems

Honeywell’s technologies are powering the transition to autonomous aircraft in defense by delivering the secure, modular and intelligent systems today’s defense operations demand. Whether enhancing manned missions or enabling full autonomy, our solutions are designed to support evolving strategic priorities.

• Anthem – A highly automated, cloud-connected flight deck that supports defense modernization and simplifies mission management across aircraft types.
• Collaborative Combat Aircraft – Modular, autonomous-ready platforms built from proven Honeywell avionics and navigation systems.
• ISR Missions – Mission management systems and advanced communication technologies enhance mission efficiency, improve situational awareness and ensure secure communication in various operational environments.
• DARWIN – An AI copilot developed through a Honeywell-led SESAR research initiative to support safer autonomous flight operations.
• Resilient Navigation – Global and inertial navigation inputs support autonomous point-to-point travel, even in GPS-denied environments.
• SAMURAI – Our Stationary And Mobile UAS Reveal And Intercept system combines beyond-visual-line-of-sight communication with command-and-control capabilities to detect, track and then counter drone swarms.

Supporting Today’s Warfighters and Tomorrow’s Operators

Autonomy isn't replacing human pilots but enhancing how they operate. As autonomous systems handle more of the routine and risk-heavy tasks, pilots and operators can focus on what humans do best: decision-making, adaptability and mission command.

These technologies reduce training hours for new recruits and streamline certification for seasoned personnel, enabling faster readiness without compromising safety. As crew sizes shrink and systems evolve, features like pilot-state monitoring and AI copilots help ensure human awareness remains sharp to provide vital oversight in mission-critical scenarios.

The Age of Autonomy in Defense

Autonomous systems are reshaping the defense landscape. Explore the full Autonomy story to see how Honeywell is leading the charge.