US Army seeks advanced drones for Pacific operations
The drones must be capable of covering long distances and be resistant to severe weather conditions. Such drones are required by the American army, which is intensifying its search for equipment capable of traversing the waters of the Pacific. This is a key element of the US Army's "Transformation in Contact" programme.
As part of the "Transformation in Contact" programme, the American army is seeking drones capable of long-range operations in the challenging weather conditions of the Pacific. According to Defence One, the programme aims to experiment and efficiently implement new technologies. These actions are intended to address gaps in current military capabilities.
Operational challenges in the Pacific region
During the AUSA Land Forces Pacific symposium, Brigadier General Mike Rose, commander of the 3rd MDTF, emphasised the key challenge of long-range reconnaissance. He noted that they are aware of existing gaps and face them daily. Currently, campaigns are underway to identify these deficiencies and test technologies that may mitigate them.
Meanwhile, Col. Charles Kean of the 1st MDTF highlights the need for solar-powered drones that are lightweight and adapted to the specific climatic conditions of the region. Such drones must be capable of operating over long distances and in severe weather conditions.
Programme "Transformation in Contact"
The TiC programme allows units to test systems that may be useful in future operational activities. In this way, technologies can be tailored to the specific requirements of units operating in different regions, including the Pacific area.
Units participating in TiC 2.0 have the opportunity to provide feedback to industry on the tested systems. This facilitates the introduction of improvements and the adjustment of technologies to changing operational requirements.
