In a significant move towards enhancing the capabilities of unmanned autonomous systems (UAS) for complex missions, Draper has been awarded a $26 million contract by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). This contract aims to expand Draper's UAS software for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) reconnaissance missions, particularly in challenging environments where traditional inputs like GPS may be compromised.
Advanced Software Integration and Mission Scope
The contract, awarded through an Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreement with the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND), will see Draper integrating advanced flight software and sensor-driven algorithms. These enhancements will enable collaborative operations among unmanned systems, allowing them to autonomously conduct CBRN reconnaissance missions that are currently performed by single UAS or in GPS-degraded areas.
Draper's system will be advanced under JPEO-CBRND's CSIRP (CBRN Sensor Integration on Robotic Platforms) initiative. The focus will be on enhancing CBRN sensors and customizing Draper’s All Domain Execution and Planning Technology (ADEPT) autonomy framework.
Early Successes and Future Developments
Draper has already made strides in this area with the delivery of initial prototypes for focused assessment earlier this year. These prototypes demonstrated the ability to communicate as a team and rapidly report CBRN hazards in realistic mission scenarios. The new contract will enable Draper to continue developing this teaming approach and deliver mature prototypes for government testing in 2026.
Pictured is Draper’s UAS on a CBRN reconnaissance mission as viewed on a TAK-enabled device. Credit: DraperIntegration with Existing Army Systems
A key aspect of Draper's development will be the integration of its autonomous software with the U.S. Army’s Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Reconnaissance Vehicle (NBCRV) Stryker platform, currently being developed by Teledyne FLIR. The software will also interface with the Tactical Assault Kit (TAK) platform, allowing real-time communication and data overlay for human team members.
Mesh Networking and Autonomous Capabilities
Draper aims to extend its air-ground teaming architecture to include a mesh network linking multiple autonomous vehicles, such as UAVs, UGVs, and USVs. This network will facilitate decentralized task allocation, collaborative navigation, and team planning, significantly enhancing mission efficiency.
Human Interaction and Safety
The UAS will utilize Draper’s novel algorithm to synthesize data from onboard sensors and communicate with human operators and other UAS. A human operator will maintain the ability to override autonomous decisions, ensuring safety and mission flexibility.
Contributions to the U.S. Army and Beyond
Draper’s UAS CBRN system is transitioning to a program of record for the U.S. Army, indicating its imminent operational deployment in the field. This development represents a significant advancement in UAS software, aligning with the DoD's preference for modular, reusable, and third-party vendor-enhanced systems.
The contract with Draper demonstrates the DoD’s commitment to advancing autonomous technology for critical missions. With a focus on enhancing CBRN reconnaissance capabilities, Draper’s development marks a crucial step forward in unmanned systems technology, promising to provide significant tactical advantages while maintaining safety and efficiency.
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