PESCO PROJECTS

Next Generation Small RPAS (NGSR)

This project aims to develop the next generation of tactical UAS. The design characteristics and expected performance provide a potential use for tactical Army units (Brigade/Division size), for Maritime and Air domains, as well as for dual use (civilian defence), namely by law enforcement organizations or disaster/emergency agencies. Envisaged as a multi-purpose/multi-role system, it will enable different tactical solutions required by commanders. This UAS will be able to employ autonomous behaviours to reduce pilot and operator workload. Take-off and landing will be possible without runway –as it is required in a tactical environment– aiming for a medium range (up to 200km) and a medium duration (5-10 hours of mission). Technology advancements will allow an open architecture, payload modularity, and interoperability to maximize system effectiveness. The project will require significant development in fields such as EO/IR sensors, power system, BLOS and LOS radio communications.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The project intends to develop a tactical UAS to be use at ground, maritime, air and special force operations, as well as non-military agencies such as border control, law enforcement or disaster management. The UAS can be operated remotely or on pre-programmed autonomous routes, can be expendable or recoverable, and can carry a lethal or nonlethal payload. The system provides multi-role capability on demands, including real-time situational awareness, communications, ISR, targeting acquisition and BDA, EW and armed response.

OBJECTIVES/PRODUCTS

This project aims to develop the next generation of tactical UAS. The design characteristics and expected performance provide a potential use for tactical Army units (Brigade/Division size), for Maritime and Air domain, as well as for dual use (civilian / military), namely by law enforcement organizations or disaster/emergency agencies. A multi-purpose/multi-role system to provide tactical commanders a wide multiplicity of tools. This UAS will possess capabilities to deploy, operate, and employ autonomous behaviours to reduce pilot and operator workload. The system will be able to deploy, take off, land and operate in a tactical environment without runway.

Technology advancements will allow an open architecture, autonomy, modularity, and interoperability to maximize system effectiveness. Standards and interface specifications need to be established to achieve modularity, commonality, and interchangeability across payloads, control systems, video/audio interfaces, data, and communication links. This openness will allow different countries, services and civilian agencies to use it.