Streamlining Compliance Checks to Expedite UAS Integration
In a strategic move to accelerate drone deployment within the U.S. military, the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) plans to enlist four to six third-party vendors by the end of summer to assist in completing Pentagon-mandated compliance checks for commercial unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This initiative aims to bridge critical gaps in the current drone approval process, enabling faster integration of approved systems into military operations.
Transforming the Blue UAS Program: From Vetting to Certification
Currently, the DIU manages the Blue UAS list—a directory of Pentagon-approved commercial drones that are free from adversarial or restricted parts, such as those from China. Responsibility for vetting the components of these systems has fallen solely on the DIU. While the Blue UAS program was intended as a temporary measure, it has effectively become the primary certification route, sparking the need for a more scalable and adaptable approach.
According to a DIU spokesperson, the agency is now developing infrastructure to allow manufacturers to pursue compliance assessments independently via third-party vendors. „Our goal is to remove barriers for companies seeking to buy and deploy UAS platforms by establishing a verified pathway for NDAA compliance through authorized assessors,” the spokesperson explained.
Open Application Process and Future Expansion
A solicitation will be released on June 20, inviting interested vendors to apply for certification roles. The DIU anticipates hundreds of companies will bid, with an initial selection of four to six vendors. However, the agency expects to expand this list in the coming years to meet increasing demand.
This shift aims not only to speed up certification but also to simplify the process of obtaining exceptions to existing policy—an often laborious and time-consuming procedure—while providing military services with a confirmed baseline of compliance for potential drone systems. This approach is expected to streamline acquisitions and reduce delays in fielding new UAS technologies.
Introducing a Two-Tiered Blue UAS List: Top-Tier „Select” and Verified „Cleared”
In a recent press release, the DIU announced the creation of a two-tiered Blue UAS list system. The current manufacturers—such as Anduril, Skydio, and Teal—will be featured on the new “Select List,” which includes drones previously sponsored by DoD entities or selected through external competitions.
Meanwhile, the “Cleared List” will consist of drones approved by the third-party vendors and reviewed by the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI). This structure aims to promote transparency and confidence in the approval process, broadening the pool of drones available for military use.
Concerns and Challenges: Is the Blue UAS List Achieving Its Goals?
The recent reforms come amid questions from military officials about the effectiveness of the DIU and its Blue UAS initiative. Col. Nick Ryan, director of the Army Capability Manager for UAS, expressed cautious optimism. “It’s about a 50-50 chance,” Ryan told Breaking Defense, reflecting concerns over staffing and funding limitations hampering the program’s speed and reach.
He explained, “DIU has been hampered by internal resource constraints, which slow down their deep compliance analysis. Consequently, drones aren’t reaching the list as fast as planned.” He added that budget limitations at the unit level also hinder procurement efforts, with many units turning to in-house alternatives like 3D printing and advanced manufacturing.
Addressing the Reconnaissance Gap Amid Delayed Replacement Programs
These issues are set against the backdrop of a significant reconnaissance and surveillance capability gap, following the suspension of the Army’s entire RQ-7B Shadow drone fleet last year. The planned replacement, the Future Tactical Uncrewed Aircraft System (FTUAS), has faced delays, with the timeline pushed back from 2027 due to a canceled competition.
In response, the Army has sought to leverage DIU’s Blue UAS list to fill the gap temporarily. Ryan noted that, while a refresh of the list has been underway, staffing shortages have slowed progress, resulting in the availability of Group 2 and 3 drones, which are often prohibitively expensive for many units.
Overcoming Funding Barriers for Rapid Deployment
The primary challenge remains the availability of agile funding for smaller units or divisions to procure appropriate systems off the list. “The main hurdle is ensuring that units below the brigade level have the resources to purchase these drones quickly and efficiently,” Ryan concluded.
This comprehensive initiative marks a significant step toward making UAS deployment more efficient and secure, aligning with national defense priorities to fast-track cutting-edge drone technologies into operational use.
