Future Unmanned Aircraft System (FUAS)
Abstract
This funding line is shared by Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System (FTUAS) and Launched Effects (LE) Middle Tier of Acquisition Rapid Prototyping (MTA RP) execution. FTUAS development efforts are based on requirements from the AROC approved Abbreviated Capability Development Document (A-CDD) signed 12 August 2021. The FTUAS will replace the RQ-7Bv2 Shadow systems in the Brigade Combat Teams (BCTs). Key capabilities of the FTUAS include vertical take-off and landing (VTOL), runway independence, enhanced transportability, rapid deployability, expeditionary maneuver, and mobility for adaptive and agile operations. Based on an A-CDD update scheduled for Army Requirements Oversight Council validation 2QFY24, one FTUAS system will consist of 6 air vehicles and 6 payloads, 6 control stations, and ancillary equipment - representing a significantly reduced logistics footprint than the Shadow system. The aircraft subsystem will include the airframe, propulsion, avionics, communications, navigation, and software systems; aircraft-specific ground support equipment including power generation, transportation, or command and control equipment; aircraft software; and required engineering, logistics, programmatic support. With the ability to either air or ground launch, LE extends tactical and operational reach, lethality, and protection to the advanced team as an attritable or optionally recoverable aerial capability that detects, identifies, locates, and reports threats; represents a credible decoy; disrupts threat communication, targeting and acquisition systems; and delivers lethal and non-lethal effects against those threats across cross-domain capabilities. Current LE efforts are based on requirements from AROC approved A-CDD signed 28 May 2020. Beginning in FY2025, a dedicated Program Element 0604113A / Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System (FTUAS) Project: DH3 has been identified to capture LE funding/reporting. All funding prior to this will be captured jointly on this PE/Project. FTUAS will continue to capture funding/reporting on the current program element. The total cost of the FTUAS Middle Tier of Acquisition effort is $137.7 million RDT&E from FY22 to FY25. The remainder of the FTUAS MTA is fully funded across the Future Years Defense Program. The total cost of the LE Middle Tier of Acquisition effort is $80.1 million RDT&E from FY22 to FY24. The remainder of the LE MTA is fully funded across the Future Years Defense Program. Justification: Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 FTUAS RDT&E PE 0604113A Base funding of $30.501 million will be utilized for FTUAS SEPM, System Integration, and Test activities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2025
- Source ID
- EX8_0604113A_4_2040_PB_2025
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