QinetiQ US is engaged in a multi-stage prototype project aimed to furthering the development of the US Army’s next-generation future advanced long-range common optical/netted-fires sensor (FALCONS) programme.
The company is taking part in the multi-phase prototype effort in collaboration with the US Army Program Executive Office Intelligence, Electronic Warfare and Sensors (PEO IEW&S).
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PEO IEW&S comprises a team of seven project managers committed to the design, delivery, and maintenance of advanced technological solutions.
The target acquisition technology is poised to bolster the Army’s reconnaissance capabilities, while aligning with its strategic modernisation plans extending beyond 2030.
The FALCONS initiative is set to supplant the existing Long-Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System (LRAS3), promising superior target detection and identification capabilities under all weather conditions.
The system is anticipated to achieve operational ranges surpassing those of adversary weapon systems.
The programme integrates AI and potential semi-autonomous features to diminish soldier workload and enhance target detection and recognition.
QinetiQ US National & Global Security Solutions executive vice-president and general manager Jonathan Riksen said: “QinetiQ US brings deep expertise in complex systems integration and a thorough understanding of soldier needs to the FALCONS programme.
“We are uniquely positioned to coordinate with key suppliers and integrate advanced technologies – from AI-enabled target recognition to multi-spectrum sensing – into a cohesive system that will give our warfighters a decisive advantage on the battlefield.”
QinetiQ US plans to use its expertise in sensor integration and data management to ensure smooth interoperability within battlefield networks.
This recent award continues QinetiQ US’s collaboration with the US Army in the creation and implementation of new sensor and targeting systems.
In January 2025, QinetiQ US was granted a task order to propel the US Army’s Integrated Sensor Architecture (ISA) programme, also under the guidance of PEO IEW&S.
