MQ-9 UAV

The MQ-9 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Program, managed by United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), is a research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on enhancing the operational capabilities of the MQ-9 platform for special operations missions. The program is part of the Medium Altitude Long Endurance Tactical (MALET) effort and is designed to identify, develop, prototype, integrate, and test mission kits, payloads, weapons, and modifications specific to the needs of Special Operations Forces (SOF). The goal is to provide USSOCOM with advanced capabilities to find, fix, finish, exploit, and analyze time-sensitive high-value targets, particularly in the domains of intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), target acquisition, and strike operations.

Project S851 is the primary line item within this Program Element. The objectives of this project include the development and integration of SOF-peculiar mission kits and payloads onto MQ-9 aircraft, Ground Control Stations (GCS), and associated training systems. A significant portion of the funding supports the Operational Flight Program (OFP) software for the aircraft, GCS, and turret, enabling rapid integration of emerging technologies to maintain the MQ-9's operational relevance. The project also supports technology maturation and rapid prototyping activities to increase the platform's lethality and adaptability in dynamic operational environments.

Adaptive Airborne Enterprise (A2E) Acceleration supports the integration of additional autonomous capabilities and behaviors into the MQ-9's baseline software, as well as the development of new operational interfaces such as Vigilant Spirit and Arbitrator. These interfaces are intended to simplify MQ-9 operations compared to current GCS infrastructure, improve payload capabilities, and enhance data processing and power. The A2E initiative is foundational for transitioning MQ-9 capabilities to future aviation systems, with related RDT&E funding moving to a new program element starting in FY 2026 to further accelerate A2E development.

Lightweight Open Architecture Pod and other Congressional Adds, such as Speed Loader Agile Pods and Self Protection Pods, are focused on expanding the MQ-9's mission flexibility and survivability. These efforts involve developing modular payloads and self-protection systems that can be rapidly integrated onto the MQ-9 platform. The Lightweight Open Architecture Pod aims to provide a scalable and adaptable solution for adding new sensors or communications equipment, supporting both current operational requirements and future mission needs.

Test and Evaluation (T&E) activities are a critical component of the program, with dedicated funding for developmental and live fire testing of the MQ-9 UAVs, GCS, and associated systems. These tests are conducted primarily by General Atomics Aeronautical Services in San Diego, CA, and are designed to validate new software, hardware, and payload integrations. T&E ensures that modifications and new capabilities meet operational standards and can be fielded rapidly to support SOF missions.

The Acquisition Strategy for the MQ-9 UAV program employs an agile approach, leveraging a mix of cost-type and fixed-price contracts, and utilizing Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts for recurring requirements. Proprietary considerations often necessitate sole-source contracting with original equipment manufacturers. The program is designated as a Middle Tier of Acquisition (MTA), allowing for streamlined development and fielding of new capabilities under Section 804 authority and DoD Directive 5143.01, with guidance from DoD Instruction 5000.80.