Breaking News
Anduril's Ghost-X Selected to Enhance US Army UAS Capabilities.
On September 25, 2024, the U.S. Army announced its selection of Anduril's Ghost-X unmanned aircraft system (UAS) for its Company Level Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) Directed Requirement (DR). This initiative represents a new phase in military modernization, aiming to swiftly deploy commercial capabilities within brigade combat teams. By doing so, it seeks to advance understanding of requirements, doctrine, tactics, training, and maintenance concepts for the Army's Medium Range Reconnaissance (MRR) program.
Ghost-X was chosen after a competitive procurement process, which included flight testing of both the aircraft and its payloads (Picture source: Anduril)
The MRR program is designed to equip maneuver companies and other operational units with versatile, multi-mission capabilities tailored for large-scale combat operations and contested environments. Ghost-X was chosen after a competitive procurement process, which included flight testing of both the aircraft and its payloads. Anduril is set to deliver the first Ghost-X units to deployed forces later this year, relying on responsive and efficient production to meet the DR's needs.
With over 2,000 hours of flight experience, Ghost has demonstrated its value in surveillance, targeting, and communication relay across varied terrains, from woodlands and urban areas to desert regions. To enhance the Ghost-X variant, Anduril collaborated closely with soldiers through programs like the Expeditionary Warrior Experiment at Ft. Moore, Project Convergence, and trials at the Joint Readiness Training Center. These experiences have fine-tuned Ghost-X, aligning it closely with the Army's operational requirements.
In this effort, Anduril acknowledges the partnership with PEO Aviation, Army Futures Command, and the Defense Innovation Unit, which has facilitated the deployment of Ghost-X to operational units while advancing the MRR program. Ghost-X provides ground commanders with a flexible and expeditionary capability to support tactical decision-making at the edge. Equipped with 90 minutes of flight endurance, an operational range of up to 25 km, and a payload capacity of 25 pounds, Ghost-X is built to endure extreme environmental conditions. The system is also designed to evolve after deployment, adapting to operational insights from contested regions like Ukraine and the INDOPACOM.
Ghost-X's modular and open architecture aligns with the Army's approach to modular payloads. Its single-rotor design enhances mission duration, even with multiple payloads. Featuring 30 inches of configurable rail space, Ghost-X stands as the only sUAS providing this level of adaptability, with the central rail supplying power, Ethernet, and communication to both internal and external payloads. This flexibility allows for on-the-ground integrations to address changing mission demands.
Operated via Lattice, Anduril's command and control software, Ghost-X enables a single operator to control multiple units with one controller. Lattice automates mission planning, airspace management, flight operations, and threat identification. Anduril is also enhancing Ghost-X's payload options, capabilities in contested environments, and open software architecture. Simultaneously, the company is investing in manufacturing and production to deliver this solution at scale and within relevant timelines.
With its adaptable design and advanced technical capabilities, Ghost-X presents a strategic solution for the Army's reconnaissance and tactical support needs, integrating robotics and supporting maneuver formations in increasingly complex operational environments.