MQ-1 UAV

The MQ-1 UAV line item in the FY2026 Army Aircraft Procurement budget specifically supports the acquisition and modernization of the MQ-1C Gray Eagle Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS). This program is managed by the U.S. Army and is designed to enhance the Army's capability to conduct extended range, multi-purpose operations, particularly in support of Multi-Domain Operations (MDO). The Gray Eagle system is a critical asset for reconnaissance, security, attack, and intelligence collection missions across the full Range of Military Operations (ROMO).

The primary goal of the MQ-1C Gray Eagle program is to provide the Army with a modernized, operationally ready UAS that can operate effectively in contested environments. Funding is allocated for the procurement of additional modernized MQ-1C Gray Eagle 25M aircraft systems for the Army National Guard. This procurement also includes integration efforts to update the current Gray Eagle fleet, ensuring the platform remains viable and adaptable to future mission requirements.

The Gray Eagle system is equipped with a variety of advanced payloads and sensors, including Electro-Optical/Infrared/Laser Designator (EO/IR/LD), Synthetic Aperture Radar/Moving Target Indicator (SAR/MTI), Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and HELLFIRE missile capability. These features enable long-range sensing and attack capabilities with standoff, supporting deep reconnaissance and strike missions. The system also includes modernized ground control stations, satellite communication terminals, and ground-based sense and avoid (GBSAA) technology to enhance operational flexibility and safety.

Another key objective of this line item is to address system obsolescence and ensure the Gray Eagle fleet can incorporate future payloads and upgrades. The modernization efforts funded by this budget line are intended to keep the UAS relevant in the face of rapidly evolving threats and technological advancements. The upgraded architecture will allow for integration of new sensors, communication relays, and mission systems as requirements change.

The Army National Guard is a significant beneficiary of this procurement, receiving new Gray Eagle 25M aircraft systems. This supports the Guard's ability to contribute to national defense and homeland security missions, as well as overseas deployments. The investment in the National Guard's UAS capability reflects a broader objective to ensure all components of the Army have access to advanced unmanned systems for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and precision strike missions.