Systems and methods for locating and prioritizing cargo

A system comprising:

• a communications unit configured to receive location information and content information for each of a plurality of pieces of cargo from a cargo location and classification sensor (CLCS);
• a cargo pickup planner module configured to determine a priority listing of pieces of cargo based on mission information, the location information, and the content information;
• a cargo approach planner module configured to transmit a set of waypoints for specified pieces of cargo selected from the priority listing to a control system (FCS) configured to maneuver a vehicle to a position above a specified piece of cargo;
• and
• a cargo pickup overlay generator module configured to generate an overlay for a pilotage system (PS) display to assist a user in maneuvering the vehicle above each piece of cargo for pickup.

A computer-readable storage device having encoded thereon computer readable instructions that are executable by a processor to perform functions comprising:

• receiving location information and content information for each of a plurality of pieces of cargo from a cargo location and classification sensor (CLCS);
• determining a priority listing of pieces of cargo based on mission information, the location information, and the content information;
• transmitting a set of waypoints for specified pieces of cargo selected from the priority listing to a controls system (FCS) configured to maneuver a vehicle to a position above a specified piece of cargo;
• and
• generating an overlay for a pilotage system (PS) display to assist a user in maneuvering the vehicle above each piece of cargo for pickup.