BAE Systems announces successful testing of Lockheed Martin Skunk Works small UAS on ACV C4/UAS

BAE Systems said that it has carried out a successful testing with Lockheed Martin Skunk Works of Stalker as well as the Indago smaller uncrewed aerial system (UAS) with one of the Amphibious combat vehicle Command Control, Communication, and computers/uncrewed Aerial Systems (ACV C4/UAS) variant.

Both uncrewed aerial systems will offer unrivaled long-endurance capabilities for reconnaissance to aid and enhance the US Marine Corps‘ combat management and expeditionary warfare capabilities on ACV C4/UAS, said BAE Systems.

BAE Systems trialed Skunk Works’ Stalker and Indago UAS together with other technology providers in the course of contractor verification tests, one of the most important events during the ACV C4/UAS program’s development.

Once the verification of contractors is done, the Marine Corps will carry out its own set of tests to determine if the ACV C4/UAS can be a viable and cost-effective Government Off the Shelf (GOTS) alternative for the Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle (ARV) program.

Skunk Works’ Stalker and Indago UAS are said to offer industry-leading endurance and a wide operating envelope and an open system structure that lets them perform a variety of demanding and challenging tasks while maintaining a minimal operating footprint and crew requirements.

Jacob Johnson — Skunk Works UAS and Attritable Systems director said: “Collaboration with our SOCOM and Marine Corps customers and industry partners has enabled the rapid development of needed capabilities for the warfighter – as exemplified through this partnership with BAE Systems.

“By integrating Stalker and Indago on BAE Systems’ ACV platform, we are delivering greater mission flexibility in a small form factor that supports Marine Corps operations.”

BAE Systems announces successful testing of Lockheed Martin Skunk Works small UAS on ACV C4/UAS. Photo courtesy of David Schacher Photography LLC/BAE Systems

The ACV C4/UAS vehicle of BAE Systems is a Mobile Systems Integration Lab (SIL) created to show the technology that Marines require to carry out surveillance, reconnaissance, and acquisition capabilities. This includes the ability to detect and communicate with targets across the horizon with advanced C4 systems. Skunk Works’ Stalker and Indago UAS are some of the technology components used by the ACV C4/UAS to achieve this objective.

Mark Brinkman — BAE Systems program manager for ACV design and development said: “We’re focused on giving Marines an advanced technology solution to meet their reconnaissance requirements.

“That’s why we’re teamed with companies like Lockheed Martin—to provide Marines with the best possible capabilities for their expeditionary needs.”