MQ-4C Triton

MQ-4C Triton under the Navy's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget activity, aims to support the development and enhancement of the MQ-4C Triton Unmanned Air System (UAS). The program specifically focuses on funding fatigue testing and other assessments to initiate performance improvement efforts for various aircraft components associated with the Triton UAS. This includes efforts to develop advanced radar modes, enhanced electro-optic/infrared detection, integration of high gain aperture for improved signal intelligence, communications and network resiliency, and implementation of multi-UA command and control for increased mission availability and airspace integration. The program also supports the development of capabilities to provide persistent maritime Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) to Fleet and combatant commanders.

Additionally, the program aims to provide unparalleled situational awareness of the maritime battle space to the supported combatant commander and fleet commander. It also serves as a Fleet response plan enabler with a persistent, global force offering critical trip wire information for intelligence preparation of the environment. The program leverages Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force manpower, training, and maintenance efficiencies. The ongoing acquisition program is focused on meeting program requirements in support of the 2011 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), enabling EP-3 Aries sundown and the Maritime Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Targeting (MISR-T) transition plan. Incremental upgrades are being developed to support Initial Operational Capability (IOC) meeting NDAA 2011 requirements enabling MISR-T transition and EP-3 sundown.

The specific objectives include completing Full Scale Fatigue Testing (FSFT), Effects of Defects (EoD) testing efforts, incorporating a stress report required to certify the airframe to its designed service life of 51,000 flight hours/2,029 landings. The program also includes post-test activities necessary to fully verify and validate fatigue and damage tolerance requirements of the Performance Based System Specification (PBSS). The funding supports System Demonstration Test Article (SDTA) vehicles and Fatigue Testing to retire limitations imposed by non-blueprint product and various aircraft component performance improvements. The program is funded under Operational Systems Development because it includes development efforts to upgrade systems that have been fielded or have received approval for full rate production.

Overall, the program aims to enhance the capabilities of the MQ-4C Triton UAS in providing persistent maritime ISR and situational awareness while meeting specific operational requirements set forth by legislative mandates such as NDAA 2011.