Autonomous Movement of Containers from Ship to Shore

The JHSV will reach speeds of 35+ knots and allow for the rapid transit and deployment of conventional or Special Operations Forces (SOF) as well as equipment and supplies. It is planned for an FY10 IOC. One of program’s objectives is to reduce the Reception, Staging, Onward movement and Integration (RSO&I) burden in theater. Although the JHSV will be small enough to provide austere port accessibility, SOCOM units are often deployed covertly along coastlines away from populous port areas. Consequently, as these units move inland, their logistical resupply requirements include unique challenges such as maintaining covert operations, thus eliminating the option of using powered aircraft near the SOF operational area. Terrestrial conditions (bluffs, trees, swamps, etc.) between the shoreline and nearby roads may also preclude or slow the resupply line via ground vehicles. A cost effective stealth unmanned aircraft is needed that can be carried by and deployed by the JHSV and covertly replenish SOF units who are operating on the ground with ammunition, food, water and medical supplies.