Key Takeaways

  • The Army is searching for a replacement for the Gray Eagle large drone.
  • Short/vertical takeoff and landing (S/VTOL) unmanned options are being considered.
  • Systems must weigh at least 1,320 pounds and have increased Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C), modularity, and interoperability.

Strategic Implications

This initiative may indicate the Army’s growing need for more flexible and autonomous drone capabilities. The focus on reducing runway dependency suggests a shift in doctrine, potentially benefiting from S/VTOL systems that can operate in various environments.