Kaman forecasts tenfold return on new KARGO expeditionary UAV
As development of Kaman's KARGO UAV continues at pace, the company is anticipating high demand based on interest from the USMC and talks with the US Air Force and US Army.
Dragon Runner UGVs are used by the Australian, UK and US militaries. (Photo: QinetiQ)
Sole bidder QinetiQ North America has obtained an $11.7 million contract from the US Army to procure parts to ‘reset, recap and sustain’ the Dragon Runner family of modular small UGVs used by the Robotic Logistic Support Center.
Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of 13 January 2025.
Weighing 4.5-10kg and the smallest QinetiQ UGV, Dragon Runner can be used for reconnaissance inside buildings, caves and courtyards.
Other functions include perimeter security using onboard motion and sound detectors; checkpoint security; in-vehicle and under-vehicle inspections; and hostage negotiation.
The vehicle can be fitted with a small robotic arm capable of lifting 5kg.
Aside from the US Army, other Dragon Runner users include the Australian and UK militaries.
As development of Kaman's KARGO UAV continues at pace, the company is anticipating high demand based on interest from the USMC and talks with the US Air Force and US Army.
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