STTR phase II proposal SF2-17507 - utilizing the drone recharging operational payload system to autonomously establish and replenish an austere airfield

This $1.8 million STTR Phase II contract awarded to TB2 Aerospace by the Department of the Air Force will develop the Drone Recharging Operational Payload System (DROPS) to autonomously establish and replenish austere airfields using unmanned aerial systems . The project aims to enable autonomous mid-mile delivery of tactical supplies, including fuel and water, to support the Air Force's Agile Combat Employment Doctrine by working with the 820th Base Defense Group . DROPS is a modular payload system that allows drones to autonomously capture, transport, deliver, and recharge tactical resupply pods without manual intervention .