Low Cost Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)

The Department of Defense has expressed the need for unmanned aerial systems (UASs) that can perform intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and laser target identification & designation missions. This system should integrate into existing communication and data-link networks. NexGen Aircraft Corporation developed tactical-class UAS capable of carrying a 15 lb ISR/directed energy (DE) payload for up to 24 hours to bridge the capability cap of existing UASs. A light-weight, high-aspect ratio, highly-optimized aircraft constructed using rapid prototyping methods can achieve a system cost goal of $50,000. The DE payload will include laser target identification and designation. The aircraft will be launched using either a trolley or a pneumatic launcher and recovered via a parachute. This system will employ advanced autopilot and navigation systems to be simple enough for a non-pilot operator to control. It will be capable of having vehicle and payload control transferred to a forward operating team. It will use commercial-off-the-shelf electronic components to minimize the system’s cost and ensure seamless integration into existing networks. Phase II will demonstrate the system’s capability as it is manufactured and flight tested. BENEFIT: The purpose of this engineering development is to produce a tactical-class UAS available at a cost of $50,000 or less. This vehicle will have an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) mission with a 24 hour maximum endurance. This system will have a directed energy (DE) payload capable of laser target identification and designation. In addition to being inexpensive, non-pilot operators will be capable of using this system with minimal training. This system will then be used to operate existing and flight test future military and civilian payloads due to its flexible plug and play design. On the battlefield, this system will offer combat commanders (COCOMs) significant mission capability including persistent ISR, precision target location and designation, base protection, battle damage assessment, and battle management. This system is capable of being launched from safe zones and flying behind enemy lines to allow forward operating troops to control the vehicle to have real-time intelligence and precision targeting capabilities. This system will provide the military additional capabilities allowing the military to become more efficient and effective while reducing the risk of casualties. The system design and technology integration will offer the DoD and commercial organizations the capability of theater-class UASs with the simple logistics and cost of small-class UASs.