Next Generation UAS Platform for US Special Operators

Berry Aviation's design employs advanced technologies that deliver solutions uniquely suited to Special Operations Forces members operating in contested environments By Caroline Rees / 05 Sep 2022

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Berry Aviation Vice President of Unmanned Autonomous Systems, Rick Gaeta, (left) and Berry Aviation engineer, Brian Delano, display an example of the company’s Iron Weasel, an autonomous vehicle designed for use in the Group 1 UAS Air-Launched Effector market.

The US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), Science and Technology Directorate has awarded Berry Aviation, Inc. a $1.45 million contract to design and develop a new Group 1 Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) for Special Operations Forces (SOF). 

Berry Aviation’s design employs advanced technologies that deliver solutions uniquely suited to SOF members operating in contested environments. 

“[The company is] excited to undertake such a meaningful task to develop a highly capable and resilient UAS platform for our SOF warfighters,” said Dr. Rick Gaeta, Vice President, and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for Berry Aviation’s UAS Division. 

According to Berry Aviation, this new contract award adds to the significant growth experienced by the company’s UAS division which operates from Stillwater, Oklahoma and employs 21 personnel across the state.

Berry Aviation, headquartered in San Marcos, TX, is a member of Acorn Growth Companies. With nearly 40 years of experience in the aviation industry, the company operates a portfolio of specialized aviation solutions that includes Government Services, On-Demand Cargo, Unmanned Aerial Systems, ISR, and Passenger Operations, Part 135 Aerial Delivery, Part 135 Fixed Wing Night Vision Flight, and Part 135 Air Ambulance, MEDEVAC and CASEVAC. 

The company is a certified as an FAA and EASA Part 145 Repair Station and is medically accredited by NAAMTA and CAMTS.

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Posted by Caroline Rees Caroline co-founded Unmanned Systems Technology and has been at the forefront of the business ever since. With a Masters Degree in marketing Caroline has her finger on the pulse of all things unmanned and is committed to showcasing the very latest in unmanned technical innovation. Connect & Contact

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