Allen Control Systems launches Innovation Lab, accelerating development of next-gen autonomous defense tech

Allen Control Systems (ACS), a leader in autonomous precision robotics, launched its Innovation Lab which brings together interdisciplinary engineering teams to accelerate the development of next-generation autonomous systems. The company also announced Alex Clark, veteran engineering and counter-unmanned aerial system leader and former Senior Director of Advanced Innovations at BlueHalo, has joined ACS as Head of Innovation to lead the Innovation Lab.

“We're doubling down on our commitment to build the weapons systems that the U.S. and our allies will need for the conflicts of the future,” says Steve Simoni, co-founder and President, ACS. “Alex’s proven record of scaling complex defense technology programs and his deep engineering and technical expertise, make him the ideal innovation leader. Alex shares our commitment to building the weapons systems we need to meet the threats of tomorrow.”

Clark is an established leader in developing and implementing counter-unmanned aerial system solutions. With two decades of experience pushing the boundaries of C-UAS, autonomy, and advanced sensors, Clark has redefined the capabilities of autonomous systems, translating visionary ideas into tangible, game-changing solutions by leveraging artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics to help shape a safer future. Most recently, he served as Senior Director of Advanced Innovations at BlueHalo. He has also held key leadership roles at IERUS Technologies, Engenius Micro, and Kratos Defense.

“ACS is tackling the kind of complex, high-consequence challenges that define the future of defense. Equipped with the expert team, technical expertise, and accurate understanding, ACS is positioned to address the pressing challenge hostile drones pose for modern warfare,” says Clark. "Counter-UAS is a layered, multi-domain problem – from sensing and targeting to the mechanics of engagement – and solving it requires more than traditional thinking. The best engineers connect the dots in unconventional ways, applying existing technologies in ways no one else has imagined. That’s the kind of work we’re doing at ACS: shaping the future of defense with speed, precision, and purpose.”

ACS is building the next generation of autonomous precision weapons to meet the evolving demands of modern conflict. Bullfrog, ACS’ flagship product, enables any legacy or modern weapon system to achieve precise engagements at any target and significantly increases the accuracy of existing battlefield weapons. Bullfrog represents a significant enhancement over current remote weapon stations, which are typically operated via analog joystick. ACS’ autonomous weapon stations are the most practical and effective countermeasure to the rapidly proliferating unmanned threat and are needed by every organization responsible for national security.