Lockheed Martin’s advanced aerospace division, Skunk Works® (NYSE: LMT), has teamed up with technology company Arquimea to present a cutting-edge anomaly detection system for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms. The new technology aims to improve mission scanning by efficiently identifying anomalies in electro-optical (EO) and infrared (IR) data.
This innovative system significantly reduces the number of scans needed by quickly detecting abnormal patterns in the data. It allows ISR platforms to spot subtle environmental changes that might otherwise be overlooked, improving image analysis and situational awareness. This technology is particularly useful in areas like threat detection, environmental monitoring, disaster response, and industrial safety.
The system integrates anomaly detection across both EO and IR spectrums, providing early warnings and enhancing decision-making in critical situations. It can identify hidden risks such as wildfires, pollution, and mechanical issues, offering faster and more accurate assessments that help protect both people and assets.
Emanuele Serafini, Lockheed Martin’s Vice President for Western Europe, emphasized the importance of international collaboration. He stated that this initiative supports innovation, strengthens defense capabilities, and advances dual-use technologies. The partnership with Arquimea also highlights Spain’s growing role in aerospace and defense technology development.
During recent tests, a simulated small uncrewed aerial system (UAS) was deployed in a jungle-like environment. The AI-powered system, trained using episodic memory techniques, detected physical changes by comparing real-time observations with past environmental data—even from new perspectives that the aircraft had never encountered before.
The system uses neural networks to create contextual views of areas not directly seen, comparing them to historical data to identify key anomalies. This approach goes beyond traditional image comparison, allowing autonomous systems to adapt to new scenarios while maintaining accuracy.
This breakthrough is a significant step in creating smarter ISR platforms that can operate independently and confidently interpret unfamiliar data. The technology is also relevant for autonomous navigation and mission planning.
Looking ahead, Skunk Works® and Arquimea plan to expand these AI-driven methods in 2025, applying them to additional sensor systems and decision-making frameworks for future autonomous platforms in various sectors.
OJ Sanchez, Vice President and General Manager of Skunk Works®, emphasized the team’s commitment to blending manned and unmanned capabilities. “Our goal is to enhance operational flexibility, speed up decision-making, and improve crew safety through the integration of advanced technologies and collaborative systems.”
Lockheed Martin continues to lead in the global defense sector by delivering innovative solutions as part of its 21st Century Security® strategy. Arquimea, with engineering hubs in Spain and Pasadena, California, specializes in high-performance solutions across AI, quantum technology, robotics, and biotechnology for industries like aerospace, defense, and national security.
