Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (SUAV) (6.5)

The Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (SUAV) program aims to address operational gaps by transitioning the Rucksack Portable Uncrewed Aircraft System (RPUAS) Family of Small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (FoSUAS) to the Joint Small Uncrewed Aircraft System Capability Development Document (J-sUAS CDD). This initiative is designed to enhance situational awareness and force protection for battalion and below ground maneuver elements. The systems provide real-time reconnaissance and targeting capabilities, including Full Motion Video and sensor data, which are interoperable with digital data-linked systems like the One System Remote Video Terminal.

The Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) component of the SUAV program focuses on developing a second-generation air vehicle with modular payloads, obstacle avoidance, target recognition, and automated following capabilities. This system is intended to offer platoons a 30-minute flight endurance and a 3 km operational range.

Meanwhile, the Long Range Reconnaissance (LRR) system is being developed to support Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA) efforts with an uncrewed air vehicle that has a range of 30-60 km and an endurance of 5-8 hours. It will include features such as Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (APNT), data links for mission payload optimization, and kinetic architectures.

The Joint Tactical Autonomous Aerial Resupply System (JTAARS) is another key objective within the SUAV program. It aims to provide autonomous aerial cargo delivery to support highly mobile tactical combat forces. JTAARS seeks to reduce reliance on ground lines of communication, minimize threats to manned convoys, lighten soldier loads, and streamline supply chains. The system is expected to deliver a lift capability over a distance of 13 km one way.

For FY2025, the SUAV program plans to allocate resources towards system integration, testing, and evaluation for SRR Tranche 2. Additionally, LRR efforts will focus on developing critical components such as APNT and integrating modular mission payloads. JTAARS will receive initial resources for developing technical data, addressing technology gaps, integrating software improvements, and ensuring compliance with C5ISR/EW Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS).