The US Navy has issued a request for information for its Collaborative Combat Aircraft Increment 1 program, officially launching its search for carrier-capable unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
Published by Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), the document seeks industry proposals to build two fully mission-ready prototypes designed to operate from the Nimitz-class and Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers.
The force has established a three-year timeline for the loyal wingman initiative, with the first testbed’s flight scheduled within 24 months of a contract award and shore-based carrier certification within 36 months.
NAVAIR capped the cost of a potential drone at $30 million per platform, or approximately one-third the cost of an F-35 fighter jet.
Core Features
According to the solicitation, the UAS must be assembled using a modular design that integrates with existing carrier infrastructure and shipboard combat systems, including the MD-5 mission control suite currently used with the MQ-25 Stingray tanker drone.
The military requires the aircraft to carry up to four 2,500-pound (1,134-kilogram) weapons externally while operating at standard carrier air wing cruise speeds with extended range.
It should also be compatible with catapult launches and arrested landings in sea state 5 conditions, with waves of 2.5 to 4 meters (8 to 13 feet).
Submissions, Presentation in September
The US Navy said that the UAS program aims to address key capability gaps in contested environments where manned aircraft face high risks.
The resulting solutions are expected to be flown alongside fourth- and fifth-generation combat aircraft, expanding the carrier fleet’s reach while minimizing deck footprint.
“As threat networks grow increasingly complex, the Navy must adapt combat strategies by focusing on collaborative manned-unmanned operations, modular open standards, and rapid, cost-effective prototyping,” NAVAIR said.
Industry responses are due by mid-September, ahead of a planned industry day event in California, Maryland.
