The US Army, in collaboration with defense industry partners, successfully tested a logistics drone equipped with a rocket launcher during a recent exercise at Fort Rucker, Alabama. The TRV 150 drone, manufactured by Survice Engineering Company and currently used by both the Marine Corps and Army for resupply missions, was fitted with a three-shot rocket launcher capable of firing 70mm Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) rockets.
From Resupply to Precision Strike
The TRV 150, often referred to as the 'pickup truck of the sky,' is designed to carry up to 150 pounds of payload and features autonomous capabilities for flight, range, and targeting. This recent test marks a significant shift in its potential use, transforming it from a logistics platform into a precision strike asset. The APKWS rockets, already deployed on AH-64 Apache helicopters and other advanced aircraft, provide ground forces with extended strike capabilities without exposing aircrews to risk.
This testing helps anticipate the potential future needs of soldiers, ensuring they have lethal options in their arsenal,
said military officials present at the exercise.
Swappable Payloads for Mission Flexibility
The Pentagon has prioritized swappable payloads for drones, allowing platforms to switch between logistics and attack roles depending on mission requirements. This flexibility aligns with lessons learned from conflicts such as Ukraine, where drones are tailored to specific missions and threats. The TRV 150's ability to autonomously calculate flight paths and target coordinates simplifies its operation, enabling troops to focus on mission execution.
The test underscores the Army's commitment to integrating advanced technology into its arsenal, ensuring American forces maintain a strategic edge in future conflicts.