Anduril and Hermeus partner for autonomous hypersonic flight

Anduril Industries and Hermeus have announced a partnership to integrate Anduril’s Lattice for Mission Autonomy software into the Quarterhorse Mk 2, a high-speed uncrewed aircraft. The companies are targeting an autonomous flight test in 2027.

The Quarterhorse is a reusable platform designed to reach hypersonic speeds (Mach 5 and above), though initial testing will focus on transitioning through supersonic speeds (Mach 1+). The aircraft is roughly the size of an F-16 fighter jet. This collaboration marks the first commercial deal for Anduril to place its mission autonomy software on a third-party Group 5 aircraft, which the Pentagon defines as large drones exceeding 1,320 pounds.

The integration aims to shift flight operations from manual remote piloting to automated control. Hermeus CEO Zach Shore stated the goal is to enable basic features like automated takeoff, allowing a single operator to manage multiple platforms. The project seeks to address the technical challenges of high-speed flight control where reaction times approach physical limits.