The US Air Force tested ULTRA UAVs for long-endurance ISR missions. The force might allocate approximately $35 million for four of these systems in the 2025 budget.
The Unmanned Long-endurance Tactical Reconnaissance Aircraft (ULTRA) resembles a glider. Its wingspan is 24 m, allowing it to carry a payload of 180 kg over very long distances. It can fly for three consecutive days or 72 hours. This achievement was confirmed during recent tests conducted at the Dugway Proving Ground in Utah, USA.
The design of the ULTRA UAVs is a result of a collaborative effort between the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and DZYNE Technologies Incorporated. This partnership, known as Rapid Innovation (CRI), has been instrumental in the development of these advanced systems.
As an ISR platform, ULTRA can carry a variety of electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR), radio frequency (RF), and other intelligence collection payloads and sensors. It provides extremely long endurance for continuous coverage of the area of interest with fewer aircraft. ULTRA will diminish the dependence on ISR aircraft and satellite imaging, which does not provide 3D imaging.
The ULTRA UAVs have already proven their worth in operational environments, including the Middle East. In these areas, where basing options are limited, the ULTRA UAVs have provided invaluable ISR support, demonstrating their adaptability and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
