Survey data collection modification to reduce the period of exposure to Special Tactic (ST) personnel and reduce the logistics footprint required for these operations.

Background. Current equipment for airfield assessment is antiquated and requires extended
periods of exposure for personnel as well as large logistics and manning requirements. ANG
Special Tactics (ST) squadrons require modernization of survey data collection capabilities in
both the geometric and surface/subsurface domains via airborne and ground employment
options. For geometric collections, a “bolt on” drone-based solution coupled with geometric data
collection software can provide expeditious survey data collection and significantly reduce soil
sample reading time. ST must modernize from the dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) to a more
holistic and expeditious interpretation of airfield capacity such as a ground penetrating radar
(GPR) type system. GPR technology has the potential to provide a broad-spectrum assessment of
the entire aircraft movement area sub-surface while reducing operator time on location and
improving the ability to find critical subsurface failure areas unsuitable for aircraft operations.
Geometric collection data needs to include glideslope (to include obstacle distance and height
measurements), airfield length and width measurements, as well as longitudinal and transverse
gradient measurements. Baseline data collection of a 3,500’ airfield needs to be no more than 1
hour with a ground user capable/initiated processing time of no more than 1 hour post collection.
ST needs a foldable, all terrain, electric mountain bike to reduce noise signature on/around the
objective area. These must be capable of airborne delivery, with minimal additional training,
carry reduced maintenance requirements, and remain lightweight (less than 150lbs) for small platform
infiltration payload requirements. This platform needs a carrying capacity of 300lbs or
greater, equipped with flat resistant tires, powered by an exchangeable and rechargeable power
source, with a range of at least 50 miles at a sustained 35mph rate of speed.