Teledyne FLIR Defense has secured a significant five-year contract valued at up to $93.9 million from the United States Army. The Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) agreement involves delivering the service with the cutting-edge Black Hornet® 3 Personal Reconnaissance Systems (PRS) and its spare parts and training.
This advanced nano-unmanned aerial system (UAS) has already proven its worth in the field and is set to enhance the Army’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
Compact, Silent, and Agile: Unveiling the Black Hornet 3 Nano-UAV
The Black Hornet 3 drones are part of the Army’s Soldier Borne Sensor (SBS) program, which was initiated in 2018. This program aims to field one SBS to nearly every squad in the service, including more than 7,000 squads.
According to Army Research, Development, and Engineering Command Soldier Center systems engineer John Paul Kruszewski, the Soldier Borne Sensor System enables soldiers to acquire real-time situational awareness and comprehensive understanding within their operational area as required.
Since then, the Army has invested more than $125 million in the versatile and adaptable Black Hornet 3 drones.
These small but powerful nano-UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) have been instrumental in augmenting squad and small unit surveillance operations.
One of the remarkable features of the Black Hornet 3 is its compact size and weight. Weighing a mere 33 grams, it is incredibly lightweight and easily deployable. Additionally, the drone operates silently, allowing for stealthy reconnaissance missions.
It boasts an impressive flight time of up to 25 minutes, providing operators with valuable real-time information. The Black Hornet PRS effectively sends live video and high-definition still images to the operator, facilitating instant situational awareness even in challenging and contested environments.
Proven Success in Challenging Environments: Global Demand for Black Hornet PRS
The combat-proven Black Hornet 3 has earned accolades for its exceptional performance in the harshest operational theaters. FLIR Defense has delivered over 20,000 Black Hornet PRS systems to military and security forces in more than 40 countries, solidifying its reputation as a reliable asset for military applications.
Beyond its adoption by the U.S. Army, the Black Hornet 3 drones have been donated to Ukrainian forces through the generous contributions of the British and Norwegian governments. Notably, Norway’s Ministry of Defense recently ordered an additional 1,000 UAS systems, signaling the drone’s global success and high demand.
Empowering Soldiers with Real-time Intelligence
Dr. JihFen Lei, the executive vice president and general manager of FLIR Defense, expressed pride in providing such unique capabilities to the soldiers and gratitude for the U.S. Army’s continued commitment through the new IDIQ.
As the partnership thrives, FLIR Defense remains dedicated to investing in unmanned platforms and intelligent sensors that redefine modern warfare.
The Black Hornet 3’s resounding success and continuous advancements in unmanned technology reshape the battlefield, providing soldiers with unparalleled covert situational awareness. The drone’s compact design, silent operation, and ability to deliver real-time intelligence empower troops to perform missions more safely and effectively.
Revolutionizing Reconnaissance and Surveillance
The revolutionary Black Hornet 3 drones have unquestionably become indispensable assets for military reconnaissance and surveillance.
The new IDIQ contract reinforces the Army’s confidence in this cutting-edge technology, ensuring that soldiers receive up-to-the-minute situational understanding in the field.
As FLIR Defense continues its investment in unmanned platforms and smart sensors, the Black Hornet 3 will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of cutting-edge military technology, transforming the way missions are conducted worldwide.
Ukraine to Receive More Black Hornets
On the other news, as part of a comprehensive aid package worth approximately US$400 million, Ukraine is set to receive a batch of cutting-edge Black Hornet nano-drones, primarily utilized for reconnaissance purposes. The news, reported by the Associated Press and citing unnamed U.S. officials, underscores the international community’s commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst ongoing security challenges.
In addition to the Black Hornets, the comprehensive aid package will include military equipment and ammunition. Among the items to be provided are missiles for the HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) and NASAMS (National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System) air defense systems, as well as artillery ammunition. The U.S. will also supply Javelin anti-tank missile systems and Stinger MANPADS (Man-Portable Air Defense Systems), bolstering Ukraine’s ability to counter armored threats and enhance air defense capabilities.
The aid package further encompasses other critical military assets, including 32 Stryker armored combat vehicles, mine clearance equipment, Hydra-70 missiles, mortars, and millions of rounds of small-arms ammunition. These resources aim to strengthen Ukraine’s defensive capabilities and enhance its capacity to respond effectively to security challenges.
On July 19, the U.S. Department of Defense announced a new military aid package valued at US$1.3 billion for Ukraine. This latest package underscores the continued efforts of the international community to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities and promote stability in the region. By providing advanced reconnaissance tools like the Black Hornet nano-drones and various military assets, the aid package aims to strengthen Ukraine’s position in addressing security challenges and maintaining peace and stability within its borders.
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