The handover, formalised under the DD-250 process, transfers ownership of the Valiant system from Griffon Aerospace to the U.S. Government (USG). It represents a collaborative achievement between the vendor and the USG in the progression of rapid prototyping efforts.
With the system now in government hands, New Equipment Training (NET) will begin to qualify instructors and operators from the Redstone Test Center. Following this, the FTUAS team will commence government-led developmental testing as the final stage of the prototyping programme.
This testing phase will run alongside the evaluation of production proposals, with a contract award expected in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025. The FTUAS initiative aims to equip Brigade Combat Teams (BCTs) with an organic reconnaissance and surveillance capability.
The Valiant system is designed to enhance intelligence gathering, enabling BCT commanders to maintain operational advantage during Multi-Domain Operations. Its advanced features include vertical take-off and landing, on-the-move command and control, and field-level maintenance conducted by soldiers.
The aircraft also utilises a Modular Open Systems Approach, allowing for rapid updates to match evolving technology. “The successful delivery of the Valiant system is a testament to the close collaboration between Griffon Aerospace and the U.S. Government,” a spokesperson for the UAS Project Office stated.
PEO Aviation, based at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, is charged with modernising the Army’s aviation fleet, encompassing both crewed and uncrewed platforms.
