In the midst of ongoing conflicts, the US Air Force has been utilizing quadcopters for reconnaissance and strike purposes. These drones, mostly of the commercial variety, have proven to be highly effective and relatively inexpensive, with an average cost of $2,000.
However, when it comes to long-range drones capable of covering vast distances, costs can skyrocket. For instance, the RQ-4 Global Hawk, a high-end drone, can cost as much as $131 million. To avoid bankrupting the military while maintaining surveillance capabilities in critical regions like the Pacific, the US Air Force needed a cost-effective solution. And it seems they have found it in the Unmanned Long-endurance Tactical Reconnaissance Aircraft (ULTRA).
Developed by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Center for Rapid Innovation (CRI) in collaboration with private contractor Dzyne Technologies, ULTRA started as a nondescript commercial sport glider. Through a simple conversion process, the aircraft was transformed into a military-grade unmanned air vehicle. Remarkably, this conversion did not require extensive research or expensive components, as it was achieved using off-the-shelf commercial parts.
Due to the classified nature of the project, detailed information about the modifications made to the aircraft is limited. However, it is known that the ULTRA is equipped with a range of affordable sensors, including electro-optical, infrared, and radiofrequency sensors. These sensors not only contribute to cost savings but also ensure high-quality performance.
The ULTRA has a maximum altitude of 25,000 feet (7,600 meters) and can carry up to 400 pounds (180 kg) of payload. It boasts an impressive flight endurance of up to 80 hours and can be controlled through a user-friendly point-and-click system or satellite communication.
The versatility of the ULTRA is one of its key features. The drone can be reconfigured to serve various purposes, making it a valuable asset for the military. By repurposing an existing platform and utilizing readily available hardware, manufacturing, and supply channels, the US Air Force believes the ULTRA offers an economical option for covering larger areas of interest when multiple aircraft systems are required.
While the exact cost of the ULTRA remains undisclosed, the US Air Force is confident in its affordability. With a proven track record within the Department of Defense, it is only a matter of time before this cost-effective surveillance drone begins operations.
