Performance Drone Works (PDW) and the U.S. Department of Defense recently conducted an organic unmanned aerial system (UAS) fire support demonstration, achieved through the PDW C100 in conjunction with the F-35A Lightning II multirole stealth fighter.
Equipped with the Leonardo STAG5 Laser Target Designator (LTD), the C100 successfully guided four inert GBU-12 precision munitions released from the F-35 to predetermined targets. This exercise showcased the ability of an operator to safely mark targets from a standoff range using the C100 for joint fires capabilities without the need for supporting aircraft.
The demonstration involved three separate engagements at ranges of 1000, 1500, and 2000 meters from the C100 to the target. The C100 loitered for approximately 35 minutes at a distance of 3 km from the operator, capturing a detailed visual description that enabled rapid target acquisition.
Designed as an organic fires platform, the C100 extends soldiers’ effectiveness with a versatile payload suite that supports ISR, target designation, and kinetic effects.
Ryan Gury, PDW CEO and Co-Founder, stated, “This is the second in a series of demonstrations aimed to prove the C100 as the ultimate organic fires platform. The C100 offers a huge leap in tactical flexibility for the warfighter and PDW is ready to equip our forces with a system that can provide that support across various domains.”
This demonstration validated the C100’s role as a modular strike enabler, integrating LTD capability for rapid target handoff to indirect fire, close air support, and maritime platforms. As a standoff targeting solution, the system provides organic precision lasing from extended ranges, reducing exposure to manned elements while enhancing operational reach.
