RQ-20B Puma

The RQ-20B Puma program is a line item within the Air Force's Aircraft Procurement budget, specifically categorized under Other Aircraft. The primary goal of this program is to procure small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) that enhance situational awareness for ground forces. The RQ-20B Puma is designed to provide persistent intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting data (ISRT) to support convoy and ground troop operations. This capability is critical for improving force protection, mission planning, and real-time decision-making in diverse operational environments.

For Fiscal Year 2026, the Air Force is requesting funding to procure additional RQ-20B Puma kits. This procurement is part of a broader objective to achieve a final operational footprint of 63 kits, ensuring sufficient coverage and redundancy across deployed units. The procurement quantities are calculated to meet the Air Force's operational needs while maintaining cost efficiency.

The RQ-20B Puma system is notable for its compact design and operational flexibility. With a wingspan of 9.2 feet and a weight of 14.6 kg, the Puma is fully waterproof and capable of landing on both land and water. It is equipped with advanced sensors, including electro-optical (EO) and infrared (IR) cameras, as well as an illuminator-geo-location laser marker. These features enable the Puma to deliver high-quality imagery and targeting data in a variety of environmental conditions, supporting both day and night operations.

One of the key objectives of the RQ-20B Puma procurement is to enhance the Air Force's ability to conduct precision navigation and reconnaissance missions. The system includes a secondary Global Positioning System (GPS) for improved accuracy and reliability. By integrating these capabilities, the Air Force aims to reduce risks to personnel, increase mission success rates, and provide commanders with actionable intelligence in real time.

Funding for the RQ-20B Puma is managed under Program Element 0207588F, which consolidates resources for small UAS procurement and sustainment. The justification for continued investment in this program is based on operational feedback and the demonstrated effectiveness of the Puma in supporting ground operations. The Air Force has identified the need to maintain and expand its fleet of small UAS to address evolving threats and operational requirements, particularly in contested and complex environments.

Cost analysis for the FY26 procurement shows a focus on direct procurement of operational systems, with no advance procurement funds or initial spares included in the request. The program does not fall under Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP) or Major Automated Information System (MAIS) codes, reflecting its relatively small scale and specialized mission set.