DARPA Gremlins UAS swarm program moves to Phase 3 with Dynetics
NewsApril 23, 2018
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. Dynetics Inc. will move forward into Phase 3 of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Gremlins program, which aims to mount and accelerate the ability to perform aerial launch and recovery of volley quantities of low-cost, reusable unmanned aerial systems (UASs) from military aircraft.
The Phase 3 contract -- with the program administered by DARPA's Tactical Technology Office (TTO) -- is a 21-month, $38.6 million award. Dynetics has been involved with the Gremlins project since the competitive first phase, on through the Phase 2 system design.
The Dynetics UAS swarm solution involves deploying a towed, stabilized capture device below and away from its C-130 aircraft, with which the air vehicle docks with the device much like an airborne refueling operation. Once it is docked and powered off, the UAS is raised up to the C-130, where it is mechanically secured and stowed. The key technologies, according to Dynetics officials, can be easily adapted to allow under-wing recovery and bay recovery by other cargo aircraft.
The Gremlins system is usable in both contested environments and low-intensity, routine operations. According to Dynetics company information, the ability for a single, manned aircraft to stand off from danger yet manage multiple air vehicles equipped with sensors and other payloads will be useful for enhanced support of tactical strike, reconnaissance/surveillance, and close air support missions.
