RQ-4 Block 40
Abstract
The RQ-4 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) provides a high altitude, deep look, long-endurance Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capability that complements space and other airborne collectors during peacetime, crisis, and war-fighting scenarios. RDT&E funding in this project supports design, development, integration, and testing of items needed to meet validated requirements for Block 40 aircraft, including further development, creation of additional radar modes, integration and test of the Multi-Platform Radar Technology Insertion Program (MP-RTIP) sensor capabilities. The Block 40 program provides critical Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI) data to the warfighter. This funding also supports continued aircraft/communications systems upgrade to include Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Mode 5/Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), mission planning upgrade development and testing, airspace and interoperability and communication enhancements and updates, periodic Operational Flight Program updates and releases, enhanced weather capability, development and testing of ice protection system, additional radar modes, sensor enhancements, reliability and maintainability improvements, Airframe improvements to support alternate sensors, and support of demonstration and technology insertion. Funding continues RQ-4 unique development and integration of upgraded capabilities. When judged feasible and affordable, this program will participate in the development, testing, and implementation of international standards to enhance joint, allied, and coalition interoperability. Studies and activities may be initiated to further explore the utility of incorporating the emerging architectural standards such as the USAF Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Command and Control Initiative (UCI) or the DoD's Unmanned Control Segment standards (UCS) and Open Mission Systems (OMS). Ground Segment Modernization Program (GSMP) and Communication System Modernization Program (CSMP) will incorporate UCI and UCS standards. The RQ-4 program will maintain capability and interoperability for Block 40 including efforts with system of systems partners and continue to incorporate applicable synergies with other platforms, such as the U.S. Navy's Triton, other RPA weapon systems, and Processing, Exploitation & Dissemination (PED) elements. Activities also include studies and analysis, support to future system enhancements, communication and interoperability enhancements, current and future program planning, and project execution.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2020
- Source ID
- 675146_0305220F_7_3600_PB_2020
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