SAN DIEGO - Kratos Defense (NASDAQ:KTOS) & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), a company specializing in defense and national security technology, announced today its partnership with EASE Logistics to deploy a leader-follower platoon system of self-driving Class 8 tractor/trailers. This system is set to operate along key trucking corridors between Ohio and Indiana, integrating into regular supply chain activities later this year.
The deployment, a response to the growing shortage of qualified truck drivers, is designed to maintain supply chain continuity. By pairing a human-driven truck with a self-driving follower truck, the platoon aims to sustain or even increase haul capacity despite fluctuations in the availability of drivers. The technology, adapted from Kratos' developments for the U.S. Department of Defense, includes advanced cybersecurity and environmental hardening features.
The leader-follower platoon will consist of two trucks: the leader truck, manned by a qualified driver, and the follower truck, equipped with self-driving technology. The follower truck will have a safety rider who can assume manual control if necessary. Both trucks, provided by EASE Logistics, will carry customer freight in 53-foot dry van trailers, covering round-trip routes of 450 to 500 miles.
Maynard Factor, VP of Business Development for Kratos Unmanned Systems Division, emphasized the dual benefits of this technology in maintaining jobs and securing supply chain operations. He described the leader-follower platoon as a significant adaptation of driverless vehicle technology.
Peter Coratola, Jr., President & CEO of EASE Logistics, expressed the company's honor in partnering with Kratos for this deployment, recognizing the importance of innovation in strengthening supply chains, a critical aspect of national security.
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions is known for its focus on affordable technology and rapid development of solutions for its customers' mission-critical needs. The company is recognized for its disruptive influence in the industry, specializing in various technology systems, including unmanned aerial drone systems, satellite command & control, and virtual training systems for military applications.
This announcement is based on a press release statement. The leader-follower platoon deployment is expected to establish a baseline for the future application of driverless technology in commercial logistics.
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