Continuing Development of Darkhive MASS-DE Capability

Darkhive is actively working with 320th STS end-users on a Phase II effort funded by AFWERX/AFRL to develop an airborne launch platform called NEST to deploy pocket-sized WASP drones at longer ranges to deliver a range of capabilities for dismounted Special Tactics airmen in INDOPACOM. Over the course of the project, additional solution requirements are expanding the scope of the R&D surrounding the WASP SUAS launch device, NEST. These requirements are critical to the future operational capabilities of the system and for this reason, Darkhive is proposing a continuation of the development under a TACFI to provide the necessary funding. This R&D, which will be accomplished under a PY24 TACFI effort, relates to the current WASP NEST system to address near-term requirements of the AFSOC Adaptive Airborne Enterprise (A2E) concept and the broader goals of integrating innovative SUAS capabilities under the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) Replicator program that is focused on rapidly achieving mass with large-scale attritable drone swarms that can be dynamically updated in-flight to autonomously complete mission critical tasks in the next generation of warfare.  Should Darkhive be awarded this TACFI effort, it would represent a significant opportunity for the DAF to contribute to DoD-wide initiatives through the development of cutting-edge SUAS delivery platforms that will extend the range and effectiveness of drone effects against peer adversaries.