Budget Account
2040A - Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Army
Budget Activity
07 - Operational system development
Description
The Unmanned Aircraft System Universal Products program focuses on advancing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) capabilities through the development and integration of the Scalable Control Interface (SCI). This software enhances command and control functionalities across both ground and airborne platforms. By leveraging a Modular Open System Approach (MOSA), SCI facilitates the integration of new hardware and software, reducing time and costs associated with adapting to future operational environments. The primary objective is to increase the number of UAS control devices available to military personnel, enabling simultaneous management of multiple aircraft and payloads from a single control node.
For Fiscal Year 2025, the program aims to continue developing, testing, and integrating SCI capabilities on Mission Command and manned aircraft command and control devices. This effort aligns with the SCI Abbreviated-Capabilities Development Document (A-CDD) and is supported by resources aimed at executing these tasks. The initiative also focuses on incorporating decision-aiding technologies, autonomy, and artificial intelligence improvements as they mature technically. These advancements will support Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) and reduce cognitive workload for operators.
The Project Manager for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (PM-UAS) plays a crucial role in coordinating these efforts. They work closely with the Future Vertical Lift Cross Functional Team and Aviation CDID to prioritize user needs. This collaboration ensures that user requirements are integrated into system capabilities, with PM-UAS providing annual updates on SCI requirements. The program employs a phased acquisition strategy to bridge current systems while integrating future ones, maintaining a product roadmap that reflects user feedback from various test events.
The Unmanned Aircraft System Universal Products program seeks to establish a robust framework for UAS command and control through continuous software development and integration efforts. By aligning with UAS Interoperability Profiles (IOPs) and utilizing user feedback, the program aims to deliver enhanced capabilities that meet evolving operational demands while ensuring interoperability across different platforms.