DARPA Accelerates the Development of New Military Drones

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is pushing the development of military drones through its Early VTOL Aircraft Demonstration (EVADE) project. This involves fast-tracking flight tests for five advanced Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) prototypes this year. This move comes as inexpensive drones are rapidly changing the modern warfare scene.

DARPA is looking for ways to get ahead of the technology curve as fast as possible, so that it will prioritize rapid prototyping and accelerate flight testing of Group 3 drones, which weigh up to 330 lb (150 kg).

Therefore, the second phase of DARPA’s Advanced Aircraft Infrastructure-Less Launch and Recovery (ANCILLARY) program will focus on addressing problems as they arise during testing, rather than aiming for perfection on the first flight.

To push the process, DARPA is focusing on autonomous systems and payloads. Meanwhile, requirements regarding maximum physical dimensions and autonomous takeoff/landing in high-seas states have been put off.

On the other hand, another key element in accelerating development is the integration of Sikorsky’s MATRIX technology, which was developed under DARPA’s Aircrew Labor In-Cockpit Automation System (ALIAS) program.

The autonomous flight system is capable of handling flight control and navigation for entire missions from takeoff to landing, significantly reducing the workload of remote human pilots, especially on long flights.

In addition, each of the five prototypes will also utilize the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division’s Battle Management System (BMS) payload management software. This system allows for the instant sharing of information with individual troops as needed.

While the prototypes will feature varied designs, all must meet minimum requirements, including a 12-hour flight endurance, a 100-nautical-mile (115-mile, 185-km) range, and the capacity to carry a 60-lb (27-kg) payload.

DARPA Program Manager Phillip Smith stated the agency is taking a comprehensive approach to ensure the rapid delivery of a “game-changing capability,” considering performance, cost, usability, interoperability, certification, and manufacturing.

The goal is to have the five participating companies ready to accept and fulfill orders at scale within the upcoming budget year.

He also added that ANCILLARY aims to bridge a critical gap by offering operational capabilities comparable to larger Group 4 and 5 drones to smaller units, such as the Army, Marine Corps, special operations units, or ship companies. These drones can be deployed without additional infrastructure or equipment, even in austere environments, offering warfighters a significant advantage.

Image credit: DARPA