MQ-8 UAV

The MQ-8 Unmanned Air System (UAS) program, managed by the Navy, is dedicated to developing and enhancing unmanned aerial capabilities for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting missions. Its primary goal is to provide a persistent sea-based asset that can operate from Littoral Combat Ships and other suitably equipped air-capable ships. The current focus is on the MQ-8C Fire Scout variant, which supports Surface Warfare and Mine Counter Measures missions. However, the Navy plans to divest its current inventory of MQ-8C Air Vehicles by the end of FY 2024.

Objectives of the program include integrating advanced radar systems and enhancing interoperability with existing naval combat systems. The program has successfully incorporated a maritime radar into the MQ-8C Fire Scout system, offering enhanced situational awareness through various operational modes such as surface search and target classification. Additionally, Minotaur mission management software has been integrated to facilitate command and control for multiple payloads, including electro-optical/infrared sensors and automatic information systems.

Congressional additions have supported cybersecurity enhancements and datalink network developments for the MQ-8C. These efforts aim to improve data transfer rates between air vehicles and ground control stations while reducing operator workload through software automation. The cybersecurity initiative focuses on implementing intrusion detection and prevention systems for legacy data buses within the platform.

The acquisition strategy leverages existing Department of Defense contracts to integrate new capabilities efficiently. This approach includes utilizing sole-source contracts for cybersecurity efforts and prime OEM contracts for datalink network integration. As the Navy transitions away from the MQ-8C inventory, ongoing development efforts will continue to address emerging fleet requirements and enhance operational capabilities in line with strategic objectives.