MQ-4 Series

The MQ-4 Series line item in the Department of Defense (DoD) FY 2026 budget supports the Navy's ongoing efforts to modernize, sustain, and enhance the MQ-4C Triton Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). The MQ-4C Triton is a high-altitude, long-endurance platform designed to provide persistent maritime Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) across global sea lanes and areas of national interest. This budget line is focused on modifications to aircraft and ground segments, transitioning systems from the Incremental Fleet Capability 3 (IFC-3) to IFC-4 configuration, and incorporating critical Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) to address obsolescence, readiness, and emergent safety issues. The program's objectives are aligned with the Navy's Maritime ISR and Targeting (MISR&T) transition plan and support the sundown of legacy EP-3 platforms.

This budget activity funds upgrades to baseline MQ-4C aircraft and ground stations, including Main Operating Bases (MOB) and Forward Operating Bases (FOB), to the Increment 1 configuration. Key technical objectives include the integration of advanced Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) antennas, new High Gain Common Data Link (CDL) systems, K-BAR recorders, upgraded mission processors, and enhanced network hardware. The upgrades also address electromagnetic interference (EMI) mitigation and introduce high-assurance internet protocol encryptors (HAIPE) and cross-domain solutions (CDS). Additionally, this activity supports the modernization of training devices and courseware to ensure concurrency with hardware and software changes, preventing obsolescence and maintaining fleet readiness.

This activity provides funding for critical modifications to the MQ-4C airframe, engines, avionics, and structural components. Objectives include compliance with updated FAA mandates such as ADS-B Out, GPS modernization (M-Code), improvements to control surfaces, and cyber/crypto enhancements. The Group 3 Multi-ECP Bundle within this activity targets highly critical upgrades to improve performance, safety, and durability, addressing obsolescence and readiness issues. The budget also supports the modernization of training devices and courseware, ensuring that operator and maintainer training systems reflect the latest configuration and capabilities.

This line item funds upgrades and modifications to ground segment systems, including MOBs, FOBs, Remote Quick Look (RQL) systems, and training environments. Objectives focus on improving communication systems, network interoperability, cyber and crypto modernization, and addressing obsolescence through targeted ECPs. The Group 3 Multi-ECP Bundle in this activity addresses hardware replacements, software refreshes, and reliability improvements prioritized by fleet requirements. Training system upgrades are also included to ensure that ground segment operators and maintainers are equipped with current technology and procedures.

This new start for FY 2026 funds modifications to Triton's mission payloads, including upgrades to the Multi-Function Active Sensor (MFAS) radar, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) systems, Automatic Information Systems (AIS), and SIGINT enhancements. Objectives include improving reliability, maintainability, and suitability of payloads, addressing obsolescence, and supporting urgent operational needs through rapid capability insertion. The Group 3 Multi-ECP Bundle in this activity focuses on specific payload system improvements, such as power supply alterations and radar amplifier upgrades. Training devices and courseware are also updated to reflect these payload enhancements.

Across all four activities, the MQ-4 Series budget line emphasizes the importance of maintaining mission readiness and effectiveness through targeted modernization, safety improvements, and technology insertion. The program leverages commercial and government off-the-shelf (COTS/GOTS) solutions where feasible, and integrates already-qualified systems to minimize risk and cost. The budget also reflects adjustments for government efficiency initiatives, including reductions in advisory services and civilian personnel costs in compliance with Executive Orders 14222 and 14210.