Northrop Grumman Introduces AI-Enhanced Anti-Drone System

Northrop Grumman has launched a new AI feature for its Forward Area Air Defense (FAAD) Advanced Battle Manager (ABM) system, enabling military forces to make faster, informed decisions during counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) missions with a single click on a mobile tablet.

The AI enhancement, tested in the spring and late summer at Yuma Proving Grounds in Arizona, allows the ABM to quickly pair targets with the right weapons, using both kinetic (physical) and non-kinetic (electronic or cyber) options. By using years of real battle data, the system can efficiently handle complex attacks, such as drone swarms. It can generate a defense plan in less than a quarter of a second, ensuring minimal delay in decision-making.

The ABM is designed to adapt to changing situations and threats, continuously monitoring the battlefield and updating its plans as needed. It supports multiple weapon types and can easily be upgraded to include new weapons in the future, thanks to its open architecture design.

The FAAD system integrates several defense capabilities, including short-range air defense, counter-rocket, artillery, and mortar (C-RAM), and C-UAS missions. It helps the U.S. military, allies, and coalition partners coordinate their defense efforts against evolving threats. By using AI, FAAD provides real-time protection and simplifies the decision-making process during high-stress situations involving multiple targets.

The FAAD system is cyber-certified, meaning it meets strict security standards, and provides a real-time airspace picture, helping coordinate defense efforts across different military domains. Its flexible, open design allows for fast updates and the integration of new technology. FAAD is already in use worldwide, both for fixed defenses and mobile operations.