Performance Drone Works (PDW) has been selected to provide its flagship C100 quadcopter, a Group 2 small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS), in support of the U.S. Army Directed Requirement for Company-Level sUAS.
The C100 will be fielded to unit elements across the Army to enhance fire and maneuver in near-peer and contested operating environments.
PDW’s C100 supports the U.S. Army’s medium-range reconnaissance (MRR) requirement for a modular, Soldier-portable vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) sUAS capable of providing effects across reconnaissance, surveillance, target acquisition, communications relay, and kinetic and non-kinetic payload delivery.
The C100 enables dismounted, mounted, or airborne maneuver units with extended endurance and payload capacity in a ruggedized and highly deployable form factor.
Weighing just 21 pounds and small enough to fit in a rucksack, the C100 quadcopter empowers units to organically deploy air support, conduct precision strikes, and gather intelligence—all without the need for manned aircraft or external fire support.
Ryan Gury, PDW CEO and Co-founder, commented, “This award is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire PDW team. The world is witnessing the transformative power of quadcopters on the battlefield, whose unmatched agility, precision, and tactical versatility are revolutionizing modern warfare.
“The C100 reduces the reliance on organic fires support from both external or higher headquarters, to further enable the maneuver force with decentralize and dispersed capabilities. We are honored to have been selected for the Army’s Company Level sUAS Direct Requirement, where the C100 will deliver the first wave of these game-changing capabilities.
“The C100 system enables a significant transformation of modern maneuver forces. As we enter a new era of small robotics in warfare, PDW is proud to contribute to the American renaissance in defense robotics.”
General (Ret.) Tony Thomas, former Commander of SOCOM and PDW Chairman of the Board, added, “PDW is delivering the decisive capabilities that give warfighters the upper hand, empowering them with tools to succeed and survive in the most demanding environments.”
