Anduril is tackling the tricky task of real-time edge computing in AI

Anduril just made its ninth acquisition, snapping up Dublin’s Klas, the geniuses behind ruggedized edge computing gear for the military and first responders. No word on the price tag yet, pending regulatory thumbs-up, but we do know Klas has a workforce of 150.

The Menace-T is Anduril’s newest baby, unveiled on the same day. Points for the cool name, even though it’s just a bundle of compute/network connectivity, not a mythical broadsword. Klas’ Voyager, the ruggedized compute and networking systems, is already part of Anduril’s Menace lineup, dovetailing with flagship Lattice software that adds sensors and AI for tasks like object recognition.

While most portable command centers are truck-sized, Menace-T squeezes into two carry-ons and is a one-person setup. It’s designed to bring edge compute and comms to off-grid spots, already deployed in military vehicles and ships.

One nifty application for Menace-T is supporting the military’s Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) VR goggles. Microsoft had bagged the project in 2018, proposing rugged HoloLens headsets for soldiers. After taking the reins in February due to technical woes, Anduril sees Klas tech as a fix for IVAS’s data processing hang-ups.

Beyond military ops, beefed-up edge computing unlocks loads of computer vision possibilities, from autos to pollution tracking. While Anduril’s focus appears military-heavy, cracking IVAS’s edge computing snag could open up commercial doors.

“The tech from Klas fits many niches: military, security, autonomy, law enforcement, and more,” Tom Keane, SVP of Engineering, shared at a presser. “We’re ready to tackle a wide array of challenges with our partners.”