We are enhancing the operational capabilities of military unmanned aerial systems (UAS) through the innovative Drone Recharging Operational Payload System (DROPS). Amentum’s autonomous and unmanned systems business is partnering with TB2 Aerospace to provide comprehensive military customer training, after-market parts, in-field support, and system sustainment to ensure the success and longevity of the DROPS technology in various military operations.
The TB2 DROPS is a versatile, platform-agnostic, UAS payload delivery system designed to autonomously capture and deliver a payload to warfighters (e/VTOL) UAV. The modular and reconfigurable design of DROPS allows it to seamlessly integrate with various UAV platforms, ensuring that it can be utilized across different mission profiles.
Built to be field-swappable, the DROPS system features Modular Mission Payloads (MMP) and adheres to the USSOCOM MOD Payload Design Standard. Its avionics and power systems are MOSA-compliant, enabling rapid changes in the field akin to aircraft avionics Line Replaceable Units (LRU).
“The integration of the DROPS cargo pod and payloads with our existing support infrastructure is a game changer for military operations,” said Art Boghozian, Director of Business Development – UAS/cUAS at Amentum. “This partnership not only enhances the capabilities of UAVs in the field but also ensures that soldiers can easily access supplies without extensive training, allowing them to focus on the mission at hand.”
The DROPS cargo pods and payloads is designed for fully autonomous operations, capable of docking with and being delivered by any UAV with vertical landing capabilities. Whether stationed on a ground base or a moving vehicle, the system ensures that the cargo is delivered safely and efficiently. The pods come in various sizes, accommodating UAV groups 1-5, and have been successfully integrated with UAVs from multiple manufacturers in groups 1-3. In addition to the cargo pods payloads under development for the DROPS system include quadrupeds, C-UAS pods, and even a CASEVAC pod.
As part of the partnership, Amentum will provide comprehensive training programs, ongoing maintenance, and field support to ensure that military units are fully equipped to leverage the DROPS technology in any operational environment.
About TB2
TB2 Aerospace, an aeronautical innovation company, was formed in Colorado, USA in late 2020 by retired Naval Aviator and Aeronautical Engineering Professor Hank Scott. Alongside a team of engineers and former Naval and Army Aviators, TB2 has developed the patented DROPS (Drone Recharging Operational Payload System) system which enables fully autonomous UAV capture, delivery and recovery of payloads. This groundbreaking system is poised to revolutionize and automate UAV operations on the battlefield and create a Military Multi-Mission Payload System.
