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The United States Army is actively exploring ways to enhance its aerial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities through the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into its high-altitude platforms. In a recent Request for Information (RFI) issued by the Army’s Contracting Command at Redstone Arsenal, the military is seeking insights from the defense industry on the feasibility of integrating “Launched Effects” (LE) systems, or UAVs, into its current medium/high-altitude surveillance platforms.
The UAVs will be designed to operate at extreme altitudes and speeds, potentially supporting the Army’s Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft. The platform will primarily be used for long-range ISR missions, with a focus on providing high-resolution intelligence while also extending the operational range of the High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System (HADES) program. This system aims to dramatically improve the Army’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
The UAVs must be capable of functioning under challenging conditions, including operating at altitudes of up to 41,000 feet above sea level and maintaining speeds of 400 knots for over seven hours. The temperature at such altitudes can plunge as low as -65°F, which presents significant design and operational challenges. In addition to these extreme environmental conditions, the LE system should also must meet specific weight requirements.
The Army is inviting companies to submit details on their technological readiness levels for UAV systems capable of such integration. The Army intends to demonstrate the operational capabilities of the A-ISR LE system by fiscal year 2026.
The Bombardier Global 6500, selected for the HADES program, is expected to play a key role in these advancements, according to Interesting Engineering. The jet is equipped with a range of 6,600 nautical miles, offers up to 18 hours of endurance, and has a robust maintenance schedule of 750 flight hours between intervals. With ongoing development, the Army is preparing to roll out the first of these next-gen ISR platforms by the end of 2026 or early 2027, with plans for additional aircraft as operational needs dictate.
