Legionnaire International, a leading defense contractor specializing in weapons and aerospace systems, has been awarded a $3.19 million AFWERX Challenge SBIR Commercial Services Offering contract to develop the Small Hybrid Aerial Refueling Kit (SHARK).
The SHARK will address critical refueling challenges for tactical aircraft, making it a significant advancement in unmanned aerial operations and the Department of the Air Force’s (DAF) modernization efforts.
The Small Hybrid Aerial Refueling Kit (SHARK) is a modular refueling system designed for both traditional and non-traditional tanker aircraft. It enables in-flight refueling of military aircraft, whether crewed or uncrewed, enhancing operational endurance and combat readiness.
Features
- Modular Design: Easily adaptable to different tanker platforms, allowing versatility in refueling various aircraft types.
- Crewed and Uncrewed Compatibility: Supports both current and future military aircraft, including autonomous systems.
- Critical for Tactical Fleets: Provides essential refueling capabilities to tactical aircraft, advancing the U.S. and allied forces’ reliance on Collaborative Combat Aircraft.
The SHARK system leverages advanced modularity, allowing for rapid deployment across different aircraft types. With its potential podded refueling boom, it offers a streamlined solution for extending the operational range of next-generation military aircraft. The collaboration with industry partners brings cutting-edge technology into the design:
MatrixSpace’s AI-enhanced radar delivers ultra-low SWaP (Size, Weight, and Power) radar systems for situational awareness in any conditions.
Sixdof Space’s optical tracking sensors provide high-speed positional and orientation data, ensuring accurate refueling maneuvers.
Target Arm’s autonomous launch and recovery system enhances the overall efficiency of SHARK’s deployment and operational use in both crewed and uncrewed scenarios.
“Rapid and sustained power projection depends upon the long reach of airpower which, in turn, hinges on the availability of sufficient in-flight air refueling. Our modular SHARK system will enable traditional and non-traditional tanker aircraft to safely refuel current and future military aircraft in flight – whether crewed or uncrewed.” commented J.R. “Flash” Starch, CEO, Legionnaire International.
“It also provides this critical capability to our tactical fleet as NGAS matures. This is particularly valuable as the U.S. and our allies depend increasingly upon Collaborative Combat Aircraft and other uncrewed, autonomous aircraft. The SHARK is a perfect example of how to reimagine a standard practice and we are thrilled to be involved in this project with our partners.”
Founded in Denison, Texas, Legionnaire International specializes in the design, manufacture, and testing of defense systems, aerospace components, and electrical harnesses. The company is recognized for delivering advanced weapons and carriage systems that meet the stringent demands of the defense industry. Their partnerships with MatrixSpace, Sixdof Space, and Target Arm highlight a shared commitment to innovation in support of U.S. national defense.
