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Wasp III


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From: USAF Link

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WASP III SMALL UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM

 

Mission

The Air Force's Wasp IIII small unmanned aircraft system provides real-time direct situational awareness and target information for Air Force Special Operations Command Battlefield Airmen. The Wasp-III falls into the class of Air Force small unmanned aircraft systems known as micro UAS.

 

Features

The Wasp III UAS features the expendable air vehicle, a ground control unit and communications ground station. Wasp III is a collapsible lightweight air vehicle with a two-bladed propeller driven by a small electric motor. The Wasp III is equipped with an internal Global Positioning System and Inertial Navigation System, autopilot and two on-board cameras. The entire system can function autonomously from takeoff to recovery, or be controlled by one operator using a handheld remote control unit.

 

Background

The Wasp III originated from a combat need for combat controllers and tactical air control party Airmen to carry equipment needed for beyond-line-of-sight surveillance and to engage enemy forces. Aerovironment Inc. was awarded the contract in December 2006 after competing against a number of candidate systems. The Air Force took delivery of its initial system in 2007.

 

General Characteristics

Primary function: Reconnaissance and surveillance with low altitude operation

Contractor: Aerovironment, Inc. (Increment III)

Power plant: Electric motor, rechargeable lithium ion batteries

Wingspan: 28.5 inches (72.3 cm)

Length: 10 inches (25.4 cm)

Weight (air vehicle): 1 pound (453 grams)

Weight: (total system) 14.4 pounds (6.53 kilograms)

Speed: 20 - 40 mph

Operating altitude: From 150 to 500+ feet above ground level (to 152+ meters)

Altitude: 1,000 feet

System Cost: approximately $49,000 (2006 dollars)

Payload: High resolution, day/night camera

Inventory: Classified

 

Point of Contact

Air Force Special Operations Command, Public Affairs Office, 229 Cody Ave., Suite 103; Hurlburt Field, FL 32544-5312; DSN 579-5515 or 850-884-5515; e-mail: [email protected]

 

March 2009

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