SEP-211097550 - Small UAS

ongoing

The consortium members would like to make a proposal to this call developing The Small Enhanced European UAS project as an advanced AI-driven swarm system consisting of 10 unmanned aerial systems (UAS), specifically designed for multi-domain operations in air, land, and maritime environments. The project addresses critical operational challenges faced by small UAS, including low signatures, extended operational ranges, autonomy, miniaturization, and survivability in contested and congested airspace. Swarm Composition: 10 UAS with specialized capabilities: 2 UAS equipped with RF analyzers and jammers for electronic warfare. 2 UAS equipped with miniaturized weapons for precision targeting. 6 UAS with a variety of sensors, day and thermal cameras, and satellite communication systems for intelligence gathering and multi-sensor surveillance. Payload and Propulsion Capabilities: Each UAS is designed with a 20 kg payload capacity, allowing the integration of miniaturized weapons, sensors, jammers, and communication systems. The system uses a combination of hydrogen propulsion for two UAS, ensuring long endurance and environmental sustainability, and hybrid engines with advanced batteries for the remaining eight UAS, optimizing performance and reducing acoustic signatures for stealth operations. eVTOL (Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing) capability allows for versatile deployment and minimizes logistical constraints, while the detachable wings reduce the UAS's logistical footprint. The swarm system will be controlled via an integrated C2 center with multi-level access, providing secure communication from a NATO Command Center (with 5 levels of access) directly to the swarm. The system features real-time operational control and the ability for direct interaction between the NATO Command and UAS units. Quantum encryption will ensure that all communication between command centers, C2 units, and the UAS swarm is secured against cyber threats.