Betty Thompson
Post Author
In a strategic move to enhance its real-time edge computing capabilities, defense technology company Anduril Industries has announced the acquisition of Dublin-based Klas, a manufacturer of ruggedized edge computing equipment for military and emergency services. This marks Anduril’s ninth acquisition, aiming to bolster its portfolio in autonomous systems and artificial intelligence applications.
Table of Contents
- Strategic Acquisition of Klas
- Introduction of Menace-T
- Integration with IVAS
- Broader Applications of Edge Computing
- Conclusion
Strategic Acquisition of Klas
Anduril’s acquisition of Klas, which employs approximately 150 individuals, is subject to regulatory approval. Klas is renowned for its Voyager series—rugged computing and networking systems already utilized in Anduril’s Menace command centers. These systems have been integrated with Anduril’s flagship software, Lattice, facilitating the connection of sensors and AI for tasks such as object identification.
Introduction of Menace-T
Alongside the acquisition, Anduril unveiled Menace-T, a compact edge computing and networking solution designed for deployment in autonomous or challenging environments. Unlike traditional portable command systems, Menace-T fits into two carry-on cases and can be set up within minutes. It is already operational in military ground vehicles and naval vessels, providing robust computing and communication capabilities.
Integration with IVAS
Menace-T is poised to support the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS), a military-grade augmented reality headset initially developed by Microsoft. Despite technical challenges since its inception in 2018, Anduril took over the troubled contract in February, with Microsoft remaining a cloud technology partner. The integration of Lattice into IVAS has enhanced the headset’s computer vision capabilities, enabling object detection, tracking, and classification. Klas’s technology is expected to address longstanding data processing issues within IVAS.
Broader Applications of Edge Computing
While Anduril’s focus remains on military and law enforcement applications, the advancements in edge computing have potential commercial uses. Industries such as automotive manufacturing, environmental monitoring, and industrial automation could benefit from robust edge computing solutions. The technology’s ability to process data locally and in real-time makes it invaluable for scenarios where connectivity is limited or latency is critical.
Conclusion
Anduril’s acquisition of Klas and the launch of Menace-T signify a significant step forward in real-time edge computing. By enhancing its capabilities in autonomous systems and AI integration, Anduril is not only strengthening its position in defense technology but also paving the way for broader applications across various industries.