Pittsburgh-based autonomous aircraft company Near Earth Autonomy and Melbourne, Florida-based defense contractor L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) announced the successful demonstration of a drone system capable of delivering whole blood and other medical supplies autonomously across distances spanning hundreds of miles.

The two companies said the demonstration will further enhance supply availability and health outcomes for those using the new system, the most likely of which will be military personal in remote areas.

To accomplish this feat, Near Earth said it integrated its autonomous flight systems into L3Harris’ FVR-90 hybrid VTOL aircraft. The system is now capable of transporting supplies autonomously and deciding on its own if it should land upon arrival or deposit transport pods containing the supplies should terrain conditions prove to be too hazardous for landing.
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