Anduril Confronts the Complex AI Challenge of Real-Time Edge Computing

On Monday, Anduril announced its ninth acquisition, taking over Dublin-based Klas, which is recognized for its ruggedized edge computing solutions tailored for military use and first responders.

Though financial details surrounding the acquisition were not revealed, it is subject to regulatory approval. Anduril did confirm that Klas employs around 150 staff members.

In a related update on the same day, Anduril launched a new product called Menace-T.

The company deserves praise for the compelling product name, notably since the device is essentially a combination of computing and networking capabilities, rather than a mythical weapon. (The name Menace stands in contrast to Lockheed Martin’s C2BMC, which denotes its Command, Control, Battle Management & Communications systems.)

Klas’ flagship product, Voyager, is a suite of ruggedized computing and networking systems that Anduril has previously integrated into its Menace command center framework. Voyager has also been merged with Anduril’s principal Lattice software, which enhances devices equipped with sensors and AI for tasks like object detection.

While many imagine a portable command system the size of a truck — a common design — Menace-T is compact enough to fit into two carry-on bags and can be assembled by a single individual within minutes, according to the company. It aims to provide edge computing and communication capabilities in remote or challenging locations and is reportedly already utilized in military ground vehicles and maritime platforms.

An appealing feature of Menace-T is its compatibility with the military’s Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) virtual reality headsets. Microsoft won the IVAS contract in 2018 to develop ruggedized HoloLens headsets for soldiers, with an initial budget of $21.9 billion.

After overcoming various technical hurdles, Anduril took over the IVAS contract in February, although Microsoft continues to be a cloud partner.

Lattice has already been incorporated into Microsoft’s IVAS headsets, supplying AI-driven computer vision to facilitate object detection, tracking, and classification.

Now, Anduril contends that the Klas technology powering its Menace-T product can resolve some ongoing challenges with IVAS, such as dependable data processing.

According to Tom Keane, SVP of Engineering, “There are scenarios where soldiers need communication with the tactical edge to send and receive data, as well as manage autonomous systems. Klas technology is particularly well-suited for this function.” He mentioned that Klas has been providing IVAS technology for several years, with further collaboration anticipated.

Beyond Anduril’s military objectives, there are vast opportunities for computer vision applications currently constrained by the availability of advanced edge computing technologies. This spans various sectors from automotive to industrial, and even pollution monitoring.

While Anduril is clearly focusing on military and law enforcement applications, if it successfully addresses edge computing challenges for IVAS, the technology could also lend itself to numerous commercial uses. The company has not ruled out exploring these avenues in the future.

Keane emphasized, “The technology and products from Klas have a multitude of applications: military, national security, law enforcement, and autonomy, among others. Anduril, along with our partners, will continue to meet the diverse needs of our customers,” he stated to TechCrunch.