Tactically Exploited Reconnaissance Node (TERN)
Abstract
The goal of the Tactically Exploited Reconnaissance Node (TERN) program is to develop a systems approach for, and perform technical demonstration of, a Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (MALE UAV) capability from smaller ships. The program will demonstrate the technology for launch and recovery of large unmanned aircraft capable of providing persistent 24/7 Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and strike capabilities at long radius orbits. By extending the ISR/strike radius and simultaneously increasing time on station beyond current capabilities from smaller ships, TERN will enable novel operational concepts including maritime surveillance and responsive, persistent deep overland ISR and strike, without requirement for forward basing. To achieve these goals, the program will create new concepts for aircraft launch and recovery, aircraft logistics and maintenance, and aircraft flight in regimes associated with maritime operating conditions. The program will culminate in a launch and recovery demonstration. Application of TERN technologies and operational concepts will enable a novel and cost efficient approach for multiple mission sets. The anticipated transition partner is the Navy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2015
- Source ID
- b32e190c27ebd88681ad488fc28aa64f