This article is published in Aerospace Daily & Defense Report part of Aviation Week Intelligence Network (AWIN), and is complimentary through Jun 20, 2026. For information on becoming an AWIN Member to access more content like this, click here.
SOCOM's envisioned long-range UAS in flight.
TAMPA, Florida—U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is looking to field an agile long-range drone on a tight timeline, outlining a goal to start testing existing systems within about three months.
SOCOM on May 13 released a solicitation for a long-range, long-endurance uncrewed aerial system (UAS) with the stated plan of evaluating existing group-2 drones by the end of August.
The solicitation outlines two levels of capabilities it seeks in a new system. Basic capabilities will be a system that can fly multiple missions at 20 km and beyond for six hours or more, carrying payloads and sensors at a combined weight of 5 lb. or more. The drones must be able to launch and recover in a 100 x 100 m2 land surface.
The UAS needs to operate in a radio frequency and satellite navigation contested environment. It must have an electric or hybrid propulsion system capable of cruising at 25 kt. and dashing at 35 kt.
The desired capabilities expand the requirements to 100 km or more for 12 hours or more. Payload requirements increase to 15 lb. or more, and it needs to launch and recover in multiple environments to include a 16-ft. boat while also landing in water and remaining afloat for up to two hours. Speed requirements increase to cruising at 60 kt. with a dash capability of 80 kt. or more.
Related Content
