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Information > Factsheets > Wasp III
WASP III
Posted 9/14/2011
Printable Fact Sheet
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The Battlefield Air Targeting Micro Air Vehicle Small Unmanned Aircraft System (U.S. Air Force photo)
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Mission
The Air Force's Wasp IIII small unmanned aircraft system provides real-time direct situational awareness and target information for Air Force Special Operations Command Battlefield Airmen. The Wasp-III falls into the class of Air Force small unmanned aircraft systems known as micro UAS.
Features
The Wasp III UAS features the expendable air vehicle, a ground control unit and communications ground station. Wasp III is a collapsible lightweight air vehicle with a two-bladed propeller driven by a small electric motor. The Wasp III is equipped with an internal Global Positioning System and Inertial Navigation System, autopilot and two on-board cameras. The entire system can function autonomously from takeoff to recovery, or be controlled by one operator using a handheld remote control unit.
Background
The Wasp III originated from a combat need for combat controllers and tactical air control party Airmen to carry equipment needed for beyond-line-of-sight surveillance and to engage enemy forces. Aerovironment Inc. was awarded the contract in December 2006 after competing against a number of candidate systems. The Air Force took delivery of its initial system in 2007. The system is also used by the US Marine Corps and US Army.
General Characteristics
Primary function: Reconnaissance and surveillance with low-altitude operation
Contractor: Aerovironment, Inc. (Increment III)
Power plant: Electric motor, rechargeable lithium ion batteries
Wingspan: 28.5 inches (72.3 cm)
Length: 10 inches (25.4 cm)
Weight (air vehicle): 1 pound (453 grams)
Weight: (total system) 14.4 pounds (6.53 kilograms)
Speed: 20 - 40 mph
Operating altitude: From 150 to 500+ feet above ground level (to 152+ meters)
Altitude: 1,000 feet
System Cost: approximately $49,000 (2006 dollars)
Payload: High resolution, day/night camera
Point of Contact
Air Force Special Operations Command, Public Affairs Office, 229 Cody Ave., Suite 103; Hurlburt Field, FL 32544-5312; DSN 579-5515 or 850-884-5515; e-mail: afsoc.pa@hurlburt.af.mil
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