Description
The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) is seeking information from industry regarding low-cost interceptors in the Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (CUAS) role. The Thunderdome 2026 event aims to accelerate the development and showcase capabilities of emerging CUAS technologies to address the rapid expansion of adversarial UAS threats to the warfighter.
Key aspects of the opportunity include:
• Low-cost interceptors with a cost of less than $25,000 at full production
• Ability to track Group 1 to 2 fixed-wing and multirotor UAS
• Guidance leveraging "auto-guidance" or an autonomous terminal guidance system
• Functionality in GNSS-denied environments
• Resistance to Radio Frequency (RF) jamming during launch/midcourse phases
• Android Tactical/Team Awareness Kit (ATAK) integration
• Stationary docking station for quick-turn launches or portable carry options