1、 https:/crsreports.congress.gov Updated August 15,2025U.S.Army Small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems ProgramsThe U.S.Army has requested FY2026 funding for small uncrewed aircraft systems(sUAS,commonly referred to as drones).These systems support intelligence,surveillance,and reconnaissance(ISR);target acq
2、uisition and strike;electronic warfare operations;and other missions.Congress has expressed an interest in the U.S.militarys UAS capabilities and in the Department of Defenses(DODs)ability to develop,acquire,and integrate such systems into tactical units.In proposed FY2026 defense authorization and
3、appropriations legislation,Congress is considering whether to approve,modify,or deny the Armys requested funding and its plans for incorporating these systems into Army units.This product primarily covers Group 1 and 2 UASthat is,those sUAS that weigh less than 55 pounds and fly at or below 3,500 fe
4、et above ground level.Background In 1988,at the direction of Congress(see P.L.100-202,101 Stat.1329-60),DOD published its first“Master Plan”for uncrewed aircraft,establishing requirements and an acquisition strategy for UAS.The plan recommended a“close range”UAS for“lower level tactical units,”one t