EL PASO, Texas (Border Report) – An American aerospace technology company has successfully flown an unmanned, full-sized helicopter in a test site in Arizona.

Honeywell called the pilotless flight of the Leonardo AW139 helicopter a “major milestone” in efforts to offer the U.S. Marine Corps an aircraft able to operate in contested environments (i.e., war zones) without risking human lives.

The company is partnering with Near Earth Autonomy (NEA) and Leonardo (formerly AugustaWestland) for the project.

“Together with Near Earth Autonomy and Leonardo, we’re showing how existing aircraft can be adapted with trusted avionics to support the next generation of defense logistics,” said  Bob Buddecke, president of electronic solutions for Honeywell.

“Uncrewed aircraft will be vital in keeping service men and women as safe as possible in contested environments, and we are one step closer to realizing that vision.”

Plans call for these self-guided aircraft to assist the Marines in supply operations and other support roles, such as evacuating the wounded.

Honeywell said future tests – like the one that took place in Phoenix last month – would measure the unmanned helicopter’s software when it comes to avoiding obstacles and working with military logistics teams.

In February, the Marines made public a modernization plan to expand the use of technology, including artificial intelligence, in its operations.

“We are committed to shaping a future aviation force that is ready, resilient, and capable of rapidly responding to emerging threats, wherever they may arise,” said Col. Derek Brannon, Branch Head for the Cunningham Group, Headquarters Marine Corps Aviation. 

The plan emphasizes enhanced mobility so troops can deploy faster when called upon, streamlined supply capabilities and technology to facilitate operational flexibility.