BINGEN, Wash., Feb. 15 (UPI) -- The first of two Integrator unmanned aircraft systems for the U.S. Marine Corps has been flown and delivered by Insitu Inc.
The first Integrator system, which give the Marines early operation of the aircraft -- part of the military's Small Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System program -- is being provided under a government-owned, contractor-operated arrangement.
"The Integrator system delivery at Twentynine Palms (Calif.), just less than a year-and-a-half post-contract award, is a reflection of our commitment to STUAS and our commitment to the U.S. Marine Corps," said Insitu Senior Vice President of Integrator Programs Bill Clark.
"We continue to be grateful for the opportunity to support the warfighter with cost-effective and ever-increasing ISR capability."
The Integrator, which will be operated and maintained for the Marines by Insitu, will provide persistent land-based tactical intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance data.
"This (early operational capability) system at Twentynine Palms will optimize the pre-deployment training and exercises for the Marines prior to their arrival in Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) or any other area of operation," said Marine Corps Col. James Rector.
Insitu said a second system was delivered to the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command earlier this month.
