SMALL UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEMS

The SMALL UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEMS (SUAS) program, as outlined in Army Budget Line Item 7000I47000, is a key component of the Department of Defense's Capability Based (Agile) Funding Pilot. The primary goal of this program is to enhance warfighting effectiveness by rapidly fielding and adapting small uncrewed aircraft systems to meet the evolving demands of modern battlefields. The SUAS portfolio supports the Army's priority to deliver cutting-edge technology and critical capabilities, focusing on organic aerial reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting for battalion and below echelons.

The program is structured to address the limitations posed by the rapid pace and proliferation of technological change in adversarial environments. Funding for the SUAS program in FY 2026 represents a realignment from previous budget activities, specifically from Short Range Reconnaissance and Long Range Reconnaissance accounts. This realignment is intended to support Agile Portfolio Management, enabling the Army to more effectively respond to emerging threats and operational requirements.

The program is not a new start, but rather a consolidation and acceleration of existing efforts under a more flexible management structure. The SUAS portfolio includes procurement for Short Range Reconnaissance, Long Range Reconnaissance, Joint Tactical Autonomous Aerial Resupply System, Company Level SUAS Directed Requirement, Medium Range Reconnaissance, and Purpose Built Attritable Systems.

Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) is a major line item within the SUAS portfolio, with a planned procurement quantity of 265 units in FY 2026. The SRR program aims to provide maneuver elements with real-time full motion video and sensor data through modular payloads, enhancing situational awareness and force protection in complex environments. SRR systems are designed to be highly adaptable, leveraging a Modular Open Systems Approach that allows for rapid integration of new technologies and swappable payloads. This approach ensures continued relevance against both current and emerging operational threats, supporting persistent overwatch and enabling Army formations to project combat power across domains.

Long Range Reconnaissance (LRR) is another critical component, supporting the production and fielding of systems capable of extended-range surveillance and targeting. These systems are intended to disrupt near-peer threats, secure key terrain, and provide persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. The LRR line also includes procurement for autonomous aerial resupply systems, which are designed to deliver supplies to forward units, further enhancing operational agility and reducing risk to personnel.

The SUAS program also funds Purpose Built Attritable Systems (PBAS) and FPV (First Person View) systems, which are designed for high-risk missions where loss of the platform is acceptable. These attritable systems enable the Army to conduct reconnaissance and targeting in contested environments without risking high-value assets. Additionally, the Company Level SUAS Directed Requirement addresses specific operational needs identified by Army units, ensuring that the SUAS portfolio remains responsive to user feedback and emerging mission requirements.

Program management for SUAS is structured to ensure rapid adaptation and fielding, with dedicated resources for systems engineering, program management, software maintenance, and qualification. The Army Project Manager is responsible for informing Congress of any quantity changes between products, maintaining transparency and accountability in procurement. Funding also supports initial spares, fielding, and sustainment activities to ensure operational readiness across the Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve.