U.S. Army Receives First Autonomous-Ready H-60Mx Black Hawk Helicopter for Testing

The U.S. Army has received the H-60Mx Black Hawk helicopter, capable of autonomous flight, marking a significant advancement in aviation technology. Developed in collaboration with DARPA's ALIAS program, this optionally piloted vehicle will undergo rigorous testing to evaluate its performance in various mission scenarios. Key features include a fly-by-wire control system and MATRIX™ technology, aimed at enhancing safety and operational efficiency while reducing pilot workload.

Published Mar 21, 2026

The U.S. Army has received the H-60Mx Black Hawk helicopter, which can operate autonomously or with pilots. This optionally piloted vehicle is the result of over a decade of development through DARPA's ALIAS program, designed to automate flight functions and reduce pilot workload.

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It features a fly-by-wire control system and MATRIX™ technology for advanced flight management. Testing will assess its capabilities in complex scenarios and low-visibility conditions, as well as its potential for future integration across the Army's helicopter fleet. The helicopter serves as a testbed for the Strategic Autonomy Flight Enabler program, with plans for broader application of the technology.