WASHINGTON: The United States is testing a number of new weapon systems for use in Iraq and Afghanistan. This testing is identifying problems. One such system encountering problems is the Honeywell Aerospace ducted-fan T-Hawk micro air vehicle (MAV). This backpack-sized small unmanned air vehicle can hover and “stare,” gathering battlefield information in support of small unit (down to platoon) operations. The system consists of two air vehicles and a ground control unit. The T-Hawk was once part of the U.S. Army’s massive Future Combat Systems program.
The T-Hawk can be seen 4 kilometers away and can be heard 2 kilometers away. These facts make the T-Hawk a poor platform for stealthy reconnaissance and surveillance work. The testing also shows the continued poor reliability and durability of this air vehicle. The MAV will need further development before fielding.
As for the Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS), progress is being made. Lockheed Martin and Raytheon are developing this system. The team is correcting problems with the program. Still, reports say the system cannot be fully assessed until after an upcoming missile flight test. Earlier problems postponed this missile test. Furthermore, user testing has identified large reliability shortfalls with the NLOS-LS.
The Pentagon already approved limited production of the NLOS-LS; however, many in the Pentagon’s leadership remain wary of the NLOS-LS.
