FAMILY OF PERSISTENT SURVEILLANCE CAP.

The Family of Persistent Surveillance Capabilities (FPSC) program, as detailed in Army budget line item 9926BL5287, is focused on the procurement and sustainment of persistent surveillance systems, primarily the Persistent Surveillance Systems - Tethered (PSS-T) aerostat platforms. The goal of this program is to provide the Army with highly persistent, flexible, multi-sensor information collection platforms that enhance intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and force protection capabilities. These systems are designed to integrate with other aerial and unattended ground sensor systems, offering a slew-to-cue capability that enables rapid detection and response to threats on the battlefield.

The PSS-T Large Platform is a key component of the FPSC, equipped with advanced sensors such as the Unattended Transient Acoustic Measurement and Signature Intelligence (MASINT) System (UTAMS), which acoustically cues the MX series sensors to targets. The large platform also includes the Tactical Common Data Link (TCDL) for real-time video transmission, Expendable-Unattended Ground Sensors (E-UGS) for detecting enemy movement, and a suite of enhancements such as High Antennas for Radio Communications (HARC), wideband radios, and advanced radar and imagery sensors. The objective for this platform is to provide 360-degree detection, real-time full-motion video, and wide-area monitoring to support both intelligence collection and direct tactical operations.

The PSS-T Medium Platform is designed to rapidly deliver ISR capabilities to remote forward operating bases (FOBs). This platform has been instrumental in meeting urgent operational needs by providing persistent surveillance in high-threat environments. The medium platform is continually upgraded with new radios, networking technologies, dual sensor capabilities, and survivability enhancements. It also leverages E-UGS and a variety of sensor payloads, including wide-area motion imagery (WAMI) and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) cameras, to enhance situational awareness and facilitate rapid tactical response.

A critical objective of the FPSC program is to maintain mission readiness by ensuring that all deployed aerostat systems are equipped with essential sensor payloads. These include long-range imaging and lasing payloads, which are vital for the detection and identification of threats such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and enemy personnel. The budget justification emphasizes that without these sensors, the systems would be designated as Non-Mission Capable (NMC), potentially resulting in increased risk to U.S. and coalition forces.

The FY 2026 base procurement request supports the replacement of combat losses incurred during Operation Inherent Resolve, specifically for MX sensors, KBII WAMI sensors, and aerostat envelopes. These replacements are necessary to sustain ongoing operations and ensure the continued effectiveness of deployed surveillance systems. The request reflects the ongoing need to address battle damage and maintain operational capability.

The FPSC program also supports system upgrades and enhancements to address evolving threats and operational requirements. This includes the integration of new communication technologies, survivability improvements, and additional sensor capabilities such as coded laser target designation and advanced radar systems. The program management office provides oversight and support to ensure timely delivery and integration of these upgrades across the family of systems.