SMALL UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

The Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS) program within the Army is focused on addressing operational gaps by enhancing situational awareness and force protection for ground maneuver elements at the battalion level and below. The program aims to provide these units with organic reconnaissance and targeting capabilities through real-time video and sensor data. This data can be integrated with other systems, such as the One System Remote Video Terminal, to enhance interoperability.

The SUAS program includes various reconnaissance systems like Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR), Medium Range Reconnaissance (MRR), and Long Range Reconnaissance (LRR), each equipped with aircraft, ground control equipment, and advanced software. The SRR capability, specifically utilizing the RQ-28A SRR for initial fielding, offers platoons a 30-minute flight endurance and a 3 km operational range. It is equipped with an Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) payload and weighs less than three pounds.

The second-generation SRR air vehicle is under development from FY 2022 to FY 2025, featuring modular payloads, obstacle avoidance capabilities, target recognition, and automated following functionalities. These enhancements are designed to be compatible across all Group I and II Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). At the company level, the SUAS Directed Requirement aims to integrate these systems into Infantry Company Maneuver units.

This integration will provide a minimum of eight hours of coverage over a 24-hour period within a 10 km range. The system will support various missions including Reconnaissance, Surveillance, Target Acquisition (RSTA), Communications Extension/Relay, Lethality operations, and Passive Electronic Warfare in all weather conditions. Additionally, Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) UAS are being procured to support training initiatives led by the Chief of Staff of the Army.

The Long Range Reconnaissance (LRR) system is set to enhance organic maneuver battalions' capabilities in RSTA efforts with an uncrewed air vehicle weighing less than 55 lbs and offering a range of 30-60 km with an endurance of 5-8 hours. This system will include advanced features such as Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (APNT), data links for optimized mission payloads like EO/IR sensors and laser targeting in contested environments. Procurement for LRR is scheduled to begin in FY 2027 with fielding preparations starting in FY 2028.