CID Scout UAV

The rapidly changing conditions on the modern non-linear battlefield, combined with the increasing use of long-range weapons and emerging capabilities such as armed UAVs, are driving the need for improved beyond line of sight (BLOS) situational awarenessand advanced combat ID (CID) systems. Scout UAVs that integrate airborne acoustics and imaging sensors with cooperative CID systems and robust datalinks will allow maximum use of long-range weapons against targets in mixed, fast moving battlefieldenvironments. The Phase I effort will leverage recent Army investments in SARA's proprietary LOSAS airborne acoustics technology, imaging sensor cueing and Scout UAV scenario simulation to develop and assess CID Scout UAV integrated system concepts.Candidate system architectures will balance integration issues (size, weight, power) and performance (coverage area, day/night all weather operation, datalink bandwidth, interoperability) with cost. SARA will identify preferred system architectures and asuitable UAV platform for Phase II flight demonstrations. The CID Scout UAV system will enhance the operational effectiveness of US Army and US Marine Special Operations, Artillery Forward Observer, and infantry units; as well as US Navy and US Air Forcedeep fires and close air support missions. Civilian agencies involved in search and rescue and forest firefighting activities may also benefit from the improved situational awareness provided by CID Scout UAVs.