USCG contracts ScanEagle services
The US Coast Guard (USCG) has contracted Insitu to provide UAS services for one of its National Security Cutters (NSC), the company announced on 27 June.
The initial $4.5-million task order includes operation, integration, maintenance and sparing of an Insitu-owned UAS on one NSC for one year. Options could see the value rise to $12.3 million over three additional years.
The arrangement will see the ScanEagle UAS operated from the deck of the NSC, with the coast guard using surveillance data obtained by the UAS to support its operations, including marine protection, drug interdictions and search and rescue missions.
The coast guard has conducted a number of demonstrations with ScanEagle, including a multi-partner simulated search and rescue exercise conducted over the Northwest Passage in July 2015. The exercise demonstrated how ScanEagle can maximise the effectiveness of USCG vessels, and showcased the platform’s ability to conduct seamless, concurrent aviation operations with manned aircraft.
Ryan Hartman, president and CEO, Insitu, said: ‘Insitu is proud to be the first UAS ISR service provider in support of the coast guard. ScanEagle’s unparalleled record of operations at sea and proven ability to give operators eyes over the horizon will go far in support of the coast guard’s unique mission sets.’
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