The US Department of Defense has announced it will award a HUBZone sole source contract to will focus Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) research to Carbon Consultants LLC (d.b.a Zepher).
The research is aimed at reducing UAS noise signature; developing hybrid power plant and active variable pitch propeller system to increase range and endurance; enhancing UAS control during VTOL operations; and improving UAS propulsion system durability to achieve time-between-overhaul (TBO) of at least 1900 hours.
The anticipated award date will be 15 June 2020.