An Autonomous Wide Area Search Munition (AWASM) is developed by Lockheed Martin for the USAF. The program is integrates a two-way data link in precision guided miniature loitering missile to enable wide area search and destroy. Under the proof-of-concept demonstration the company is integrating a data link into a wide area search munition, to transmit detected target information to a Command & Control (C2) authority and receive engagement authorization for one of the previously detected targets. AWASM will use a Laser Detection and Ranging (LADAR) seeker to automatically determine target aimpoints using demonstrated Automatic Target Acquisition algorithms. The munition will be compatible with F-16, F/A-22, Joint Strike Fighter, B-1 and B-2 aircraft. It will also be able to dispense from a Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) rocket or an Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missile.
DefenseTech Brief | April 21, 2025
This week’s DefenseTech Brief captures a defense landscape in flux—driven by urgent needs for missile defense, advanced autonomy, and sovereign production capabilities. Across domains and continents, governments and industries are accelerating the integration of...
Autonomy Takes to the Seas
This article is part of our weekly DefenseTech Brief.
Investment and activity in unmanned maritime systems (UMS), encompassing Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs), continue to accelerate, driven by naval requirements for...
Advanced Fighter Market Update
This article is part of our weekly DefenseTech Brief.
While major powers like the USA, Europe, and China push forward with 6th-generation fighter concepts, significant global interest and procurement activity remain focused on advanced 4th-,...
NATO AI Modernization: Palantir’s Maven Smart System Acquisition
This article is part of our weekly DefenseTech Brief.
NATO has taken a significant step in modernizing its warfighting capabilities by rapidly acquiring an AI-enabled platform from Palantir Technologies. On March 25, 2025, the NATO...
Loitering Munition Developments: Enhancing Precision Strike
This article is part of our weekly DefenseTech Brief.
Loitering munitions (LMs), which provide relatively low-cost precision strike capabilities with surveillance potential, continue to proliferate. Development efforts focus on increasing range, autonomy, and resilience.
AeroShul to...
Integrating Intelligence into Unmanned Systems
This article is part of our weekly DefenseTech Brief.
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous capabilities into military platforms and software continues at a rapid pace, aiming to enhance operational effectiveness, reduce personnel...
Rocket Systems & Production Dynamics: Meeting Surging Demand
This article is part of our weekly DefenseTech Brief.
The critical role of long-range precision fires, particularly Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS), demonstrated in recent conflicts, continues to drive significant activity in production and international...
