Logistic Transport Concepts

Relatively small, distributed combat units create a unique set of logistic challenges. Because they operate at appreciable distances from supply sources, either they must become more capable of carrying their own supplies with them or novel capabilities for external resupply must be established. Long-term sustainment of small distributed combat units is dependent on progress toward both of these capabilities.

The Office of Naval Research is currently pursuing both aerial resupply concepts for small units as well as backpacks which minimize the adverse forces associated with carrying heavy loads.

One of the aerial resupply concepts, pictured above, is an autonomous autogyro developed at Mist Mobility Integrated Systems Technology Inc. in Ottawa, Canada, with a design payload of several hundred pounds. Unlike conventional autogyros, the CQ-10 Bravo uses an inertially driven rotor to provide a nearly vertical pop-up takeoff capability. In addition to being ideally sized for discrete delivery of small logistic quantities, the vehicle is significantly less expensive than most other unmanned cargo transport vehicles under development.

Another relevant concept for small unit logistic transport pursued with ONR funding is a backpack with a suspension that isolates the wearer from 80 percent of the adverse periodic and transient forces associated with carrying a heavy load. While it does not lighten the load, the backpack makes it easier and safer to carry a heavy load.