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Army Eyeing Large Vertical Lift Unmanned Aircraft To Eliminate Dependence On Runways

Tuesday, January 19th, 2016

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The Army’s wants a Predator-size unmanned aerial system that can take off and land like a helicopter, untethering its drone operations from runways and airfields, aviation officials said Jan. 14.Even as the service fields an improved version of the MQ-1C Gray Eagle for reconnaissance and combat missions, aviation officials envision a forward-deployed UAS with similar payload capacity and range that has vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities.“I don’t want to be on runways anymore, so it needs to be runway…not…

Congress

Appropriators Press For Details On Iran War Costs; DoD’s $29B Estimate Doesn’t Include Base Damage

The Pentagon estimates the U.S.’ ongoing conflict with Iran has now cost at least $29 billion, while a lead official noted the updated figure does not factor in damage to […]

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Appropriators Offer Skepticism On $350B Defense Reconciliation Plan, ‘Big Risk’ For Key Initiatives

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All Future Systems Should Have Autonomy Features, Reed Says

Last week, Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) visited North Kingstown, R.I.-based Senesco, which is teaming with autonomous systems company Havoc to bid on the U.S. Navy’s Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel program. […]

Congress

Senate Appropriators Concerned With DoD’s Reconciliation Plan For Top FY ‘27 Priorities, Aide Says

Senate defense appropriators have concerns with the Pentagon’s decision to include key fiscal year 2027 funding priorities, such as critical munitions and drones production, among its request for $350 billion […]