Honeywell and Near Earth Autonomy Complete First Autonomous Flight of Leonardo AW139 Helicopter Successfully
PARIS, June 17, 2025 — Honeywell and Near Earth Autonomy have made history in autonomous aviation by successfully testing an unmanned Leonardo AW139 helicopter. The successful test was in support of the U.S. Marine Corps' Aerial Logistics Connector (ALC) program, which aims to enable autonomous aerial logistics in contested environments—independent of onboard pilots or operators at a distance.
The flight test was performed in Phoenix, Arizona, in which Near Earth Autonomy's onboard software directly controlled primary AW139 autopilot modes, and the company was able to demonstrate correct flight control and autonomous decision-making. The flight demonstrated the feasibility of scalable, autonomous logistics for military operations and paved the way for expanded deployment of uncrewed aerial systems.
"This successful demonstration is not only a leap forward for the USMC but a potential game-changer for global helicopter operators," said Bob Buddecke, President of Electronic Solutions, Honeywell Aerospace Technologies. "By retrofitting existing aircraft with trusted autonomy and avionics, we’re driving the future of defense logistics—minimizing human risk in hostile environments."
The ALC program, directed under a Naval Aviation Systems Consortium OTA by Near Earth Autonomy, has goals to deliver robust autonomous systems that will accelerate the speed of delivery, reduce personnel exposure, and facilitate large-scale logistics. Upgrades in the future will include obstacle avoidance and seamless integration into military supply processes.
Near Earth Autonomy CEO Dr. Sanjiv Singh went on to say, "By controlling the AW139 autonomously, we've proven that scalable autonomous logistics on legacy platforms is here today. It's a critical capability to maintain resilient supply chains and protect people in the field.".
Honeywell and Near Earth Autonomy collaborate on the development of autonomy solutions that are certifiable, affordable, and scalable for subsequent defense and commercial flight missions. Honeywell is widely recognized for offering mission-critical systems suitable for both retrofitted and next-gen aircraft to address the aerospace sector's transition to uncrewed flight operations.
About Honeywell Aerospace
Honeywell Aerospace Technologies provides engines, avionics, wireless connectivity, and power systems for almost all defense, commercial, and space aircraft. Its innovations enhance safety, fuel efficiency, and reliability of flight. Learn more at aerospace.honeywell.com.
About Near Earth Autonomy
Focusing on autonomous flight systems that enable aerial vehicles to fly, evade obstacles, and release payloads automatically, Near Earth Autonomy is committed to delivering solutions based on safety, scalability, and certification-readiness for military and commercial use. Learn more about their solutions at nearearth.aero.