In an effort to advance its autonomous technology capabilities, Boeing has announced that it will acquire Aurora Flight Sciences Corporation, a company that specializes in autonomous systems technologies to “enable advanced robotic aircraft for future aerospace applications and vehicles.”

Once it is officially acquired, Aurora, which is headquartered in Manassas, Virginia, will be a subsidiary under Boeing Engineering, Test & Technology, and will be known as Aurora Flight Sciences, A Boeing Company.

Through this acquisition, Aurora will keep an independent operating model, while taking advantage of the resources provided by Boeing.

“The combined strength and innovation of our teams will advance the development of autonomy for our commercial and military systems,” says Greg Hyslop, chief technology officer and senior vice president of Boeing Engineering, Test & Technology.

“Together, these talented teams will open new markets with transformational technologies.”

Since the company was founded in 1989, Aurora has designed, produced and flown more than 30 UAS.

The company utilizes a variety of autonomous systems, including perception, machine learning and advanced flight control systems.

Aurora is also a leader in the field of electric propulsion for aircraft, which is steadily emerging.

“Since its inception, Aurora has been focused on the development of innovative aircraft that leverage autonomy to make aircraft smarter,” says John Langford, Aurora founder and chief executive officer.

“As an integral part of Boeing, our pioneered technologies of long-endurance aircraft, robotic co-pilots, and autonomous electric VTOLs will be transitioned into world-class products for the global infrastructure.”

Aurora and Boeing have plenty of experience working together. Over the last decade, the two companies have collaborated on the “rapid prototyping of innovative aircraft and structural assemblies for both military and commercial applications.”