Lockheed Martin Corporation has announced a breakthrough in autonomous aviation technology, revealing that, for the first time, a U.S. soldier with no prior aviator training successfully planned and executed real-world missions with the optionally piloted Black Hawk helicopter using MATRIX™ technology. This demonstration took place during the Northern Strike 25-2 military exercise in August, where the autonomous Black Hawk completed multiple types of cargo delivery and a MEDEVAC exercise under the direct control of a soldier using a handheld tablet. The results of this operational demonstration have already been presented, underscoring advancements in using autonomous systems to expand mission reach and reduce risks to personnel in dangerous or low-visibility environments.