Theiss UAV Solutions, LLC (Theiss) currently produces Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, Aerial Netting Systems, and is a distributor of Long-range Speaker Systems. Individually, these technologies are COTS items currently at a TRL of 8-9. The proposed R&D project by Theiss will address materials research and design modifications to the Aerial Netting System and Long-range Speaker System to allow integration of the capabilities into one payload, able to be carried by a small Group 1 or 2 UAS (Drone) for the purpose of providing an IFC Payload to safely deliver non-lethal IFC effects (long range hail and warn effects and non-lethal area denial, suppression, move, and incapacitating effects) at long ranges. The IFC Payload integrated on to a UAV will not only meet the needs of the DoD, it will also serve as an valuable asset to municipal law enforcement agencies. As a UAV System and Payload design, fabrication, and testing entity for the DoD for over 23 years, Theiss UAV Solutions, LLC has a proven track record of successfully providing solutions that meet or exceed the anticipated capabilities. This experience will reduce timeframes and risks associated with this project, and will ensure that near-term transition into a commercial product is achieved.
Benefit: It is understood that after Phase 2 of this project, the Navy/Marines desire to see the IFC Payload transition to Phase III, and then into acquisition. By proposing the use of currently available COTS effectors to begin the IFC Payload development with, and by employing a company with the development and integration experience needed to reduce project risks, Theiss is confident that the customers goals will be met through the proposed Theiss UAV Solutions project. Theiss UAV Solutions is also confident that the IFC Payload will meet the needs of other DoD entities, as well as Federal agencies and Private Sector markets. These other potential end users of the IFC Payload all have security needs that can be met with this payload. The Army may have one of the greatest needs for a tool such as the IFC Payload. Given the numerous ground engagements that Army personnel encounter, and the many bases and encampments that they must keep secure and protected, a tool with the capability to communicate with/hail ground personnel and then detain or deter persons as necessary would prove to be invaluable. The National Guard would also benefit from the IFC Payload for the same reasons. In the non-DoD realm, local law enforcement agencies, as well as private security firms, would benefit greatly from the ability to conduct crowd control, communicate and warn intruders, and non-lethally detain perpetrators on the ground; all capabilities offered by the proposed integrated IFC Payload.
Keywords: Speaker System, Speaker System, Detainment, IFC Payload, UAS Payload, Net Gun System, communication, Integrated Effectors
