RQ-4 UAV

RQ-4 UA V under the Air Force's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation budget activity, aims to enhance the capabilities of the RQ-4B Global Hawk, an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platform. The program's specific objectives include maximizing the value of the Block 40 system until its planned divestiture in FY27 and developing space-based capabilities and concepts of operation to meet Combatant Commanders' needs in accordance with the National Defense Strategy. Additionally, the program will participate in the development, testing, and implementation of international standards to enhance joint, allied, and coalition interoperability. It also supports innovation activities such as studies, analyses, requirements definition, and quick-reaction capability prototypes/demonstrations to accelerate planning for technology transition and future acquisition programs.

The funding in this program supports design, development, integration, and testing of capabilities needed to maintain Block 40 capabilities and maximize system performance until divestment. This includes reliability and maintainability improvements, aircraft airframe updates, cybersecurity measures, information assurance, mission-critical repair of Government Furnished Equipment (GFE), systems engineering/program management, configuration and data management, test and evaluation activities, management services, Deficiency Report (DR)/Military Intelligence Program (MIP) Investigations, studies and analysis. The program also aims to maintain interoperability for RQ-4 aircraft with system of systems partners and incorporate applicable synergies with other platforms. Additionally, it includes necessary civilian pay expenses required to manage, execute, and deliver weapon system capability.

These goals align with the broader mission of enhancing ISR capabilities to survive against peer/near-peer threats in highly contested environments while ensuring joint interoperability and supporting future force design efforts.