U.S. Army's C5ISR Center Develops Folded Lightweight Annular Telescope for Enhanced UAS Imaging
The C5ISR Center of the U.S. Army is developing the Folded Lightweight Annular Telescope (FLAT) to enhance high-resolution imaging for unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This initiative supports the Army's transformation priorities aimed at 2030 goals, utilizing electro-optic and infrared technologies. Prototypes are set for field demonstrations in 2026, and the technology may be available on the UAS Marketplace for government procurement.

The U.S. Army's C5ISR Center is developing the Folded Lightweight Annular Telescope (FLAT) to improve high-resolution imaging for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) at extended ranges. The project, part of the Army's transformation efforts toward 2030, employs electro-optic and infrared technologies.
FLAT features a reflective design for compact, low-cost drone payloads. Prototypes are scheduled for field demonstrations in 2026, and once integrated into a sensor suite, the technology could be listed on the UAS Marketplace for government acquisition. This initiative aligns with broader Army efforts to enhance unmanned and counter-UAS capabilities.




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