Merlin
Assembly Line
Merlin Signs Agreement for Strategic Acquisition of EpiSci
Merlin, the leading developer of safe, autonomous flight technology for fixed-wing aircraft, and EpiSys Science, Inc. (EpiSci), a software AI and autonomy company delivering groundbreaking solutions for dual-use applications, today announced that they have agreed to terms for the future acquisition of EpiSci by Merlin. With this strategic move, Merlin will solidify its position as the frontrunner in the autonomous aviation industry. Together the combined entity expands the suite of supported platforms to over 23 unique types, including operations on the X-62 VISTA, Cessna Caravan, F-16, L-29 Delfin, Berkut 540, C130J Super Hercules, KC-135 Stratotanker, multiple Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV), and small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS).
Founded in 2012, EpiSci is a software company that develops next generation, tactical autonomy solutions. To date, EpiSci has participated in autonomy efforts across the acquisition lifecycle with a diverse set of DoD customers. TacticalAI-enabled products have been integrated on multi-domain platform types, including recent work with the AFWERX Autonomy Prime program and through the DARPA Air Combat Evolution program on the USAF TPS X-62 VISTA. In addition, EpiSci’s work is delivering value across domains by partnering with the Space Development Agency (SDA) to track hypersonic weapons and during successful Navy demonstrations powering heterogeneous platforms of airborne and surface vessels. These collective efforts resulted in an AFWERX Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) of $15M in committed, matching funds to accelerate the deployment of advanced autonomy capabilities. EpiSci’s target market, tactical autonomy, complements Merlin’s current transport aircraft pursuits, enabling the merged entity to capture the entire mission profile of the customer.
Merlin Signs an Agreement with the United States Air Force as First Step Towards Bringing Uncrewed Flight Capabilities to the KC-135
Merlin, the leading developer of safe, autonomous flight technology for fixed-wing aircraft, today announced it has entered into an agreement with the United States Air Force (USAF). In collaboration with Air Mobility Command (AMC) and Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC), Merlin will design, integrate, test, and demonstrate aspects of the Merlin Pilot on the KC-135 Stratotanker for the first time. The multi-year partnership is focused on using a stepwise approach starting with reducing crew workload, then proceeding to reduced crew operations. As the system gains experience and trust, it will pave the way for autonomous uncrewed operations of the KC-135; an unprecedented new capability for AMC and the USAF. Merlin and the USAF’s collaboration will include, but is not limited to, system integration, ground testing, and extended flight demonstrations.