Summary:
Merlin Labs is expanding its research facility at Hanscom Field.
The expansion is expected to create new jobs and boost economic development in Massachusetts.
Merlin is a leader in autonomous aviation technology with a recent $105 million contract from the US Department of Defense.
The company plans to establish an engineering hub at the old Navy hangar.
Local residents and environmentalists express concerns about potential increases in air traffic and emissions.
Merlin Labs' Expansion Plans
The AI cargo jet startup Merlin Labs is nearing a significant deal to expand its research facility at Hanscom Field. This site has been at the center of a controversial proposal to construct 17 new hangars across nearly 50 acres, overseen by the Massachusetts Port Authority. The developers confirmed their commitment to the hangar project but will adjust plans to incorporate the 87,000-square-foot former Navy hangar for R&D purposes.
Supporting Economic Development
Karissa Hand, spokesperson for Governor Maura Healey, emphasized that this expansion is a fantastic opportunity for job creation and economic development in Massachusetts, aligning with the state's innovation-driven economy. Massachusetts Port Authority CEO Rich Davey praised the developer's efforts to repurpose the Navy property for broader use.
Merlin's Growth and Future Plans
Merlin Labs, a leader among startups in autonomous technology for aviation, employs around 170 people and recently secured a $105 million contract with the US Department of Defense for automation in Lockheed Martin's C-130J airlifter. The startup has conducted flight tests in California and New Zealand and aims to move more operations closer to its base.
Building an Engineering Hub
The company plans to utilize the old Navy hangar as an engineering hub, essential for its operations. Merlin intends to keep its test flights at Quonset State Airport in Rhode Island while establishing its presence at Hanscom. The focus will be on testing autonomous software using smaller Cessna 208B planes.
Innovative Technology
Merlin's technology features advanced cognitive capabilities, aiming to allow cargo jets to operate with just one pilot. The long-term vision includes fully autonomous flights without human pilots.
Community Response and Environmental Concerns
Despite support for the project, there are concerns from local residents and environmentalists regarding increased air traffic and carbon emissions. Critics, including state Senator Mike Barrett, have expressed cautious optimism towards the adaptive reuse of the Navy property, provided it doesn't lead to excessive pollution.
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