Development of a SL UAS with Advanced MAD and Acoustic Sensing Capabilities

Black Swift Technologies (BST) proposes to develop a Sonobuoy-Launched Unmanned Aerial System (SL UAS) for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW). The SL UAS will integrate a high-sensitivity magnetometer and a lightweight acoustic sensor to detect, classify, and track underwater targets. The system will leverage the BST S0 UAS platform, known for its ruggedness and performance in extreme conditions. Key innovations include platform noise reduction, enhanced autonomy, and cost-effective deployment. The project will integrate a QuSpin QTFM Gen-2 magnetometer with sub-picotesla sensitivity.A lightweight hydrophone system that will be an ultra-low self noise design with hydrophone self noise levels below sea-state zero. The sensor will feature automatic scuttling functionality, minimizing the risk of operational compromise.BST will work with Cetacean Research Technology (CRT) on a lightweight hydrophone system that will be an ultra-low self noise design with hydrophone self noise levels below sea-state zero. The modular design of the S0 UAS will facilitate sensor integration. Phase I objectives include demonstrating the feasibility of sensor integration, validating sensor performance, and developing data fusion algorithms. Laboratory simulations and controlled experiments will validate the sensor performance. The final deliverables include a functional prototype, a comprehensive design report, and recommendations for Phase II development. The SL UAS will be designed to meet the Navy's cost objective of <$10,000 per unit in quantities of 100. BST’s experience in developing UAS for extreme environments and integrating advanced sensors positions them well to meet the Navy’s requirements.