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        Policy UpdatesNewsroomReoptimizationBIOGRAPHIESAF Senior Leaders   BATMAV UASThe Battlefield Air Targeting Micro Air Vehicle Small Unmanned Aircraft System (U.S. Air Force photo)
                
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 Wasp III**Mission**
The Air Force's Wasp III small unmanned aircraft system provides real-time direct situational awareness and target information for Air Force Special Operations Command Battlefield Airmen. The Wasp-III falls into the class of Air Force small unmanned aircraft systems known as micro UAS.**Features**
The Wasp III UAS features the expendable air vehicle, a ground control unit and communications ground station. Wasp III is a collapsible lightweight air vehicle with a two-bladed propeller driven by a small electric motor. The Wasp III is equipped with an internal Global Positioning System and Inertial Navigation System, autopilot and two on-board cameras. The entire system can function autonomously from takeoff to recovery, or be controlled by one operator using a handheld remote control unit.**Background**
The Wasp III originated from a combat need for combat controllers and tactical air control party Airmen to carry equipment needed for beyond-line-of-sight surveillance and to engage enemy forces. Aerovironment Inc. was awarded the contract in December 2006 after competing against a number of candidate systems. The Air Force took delivery of its initial system in 2007. The system is also used by the US Marine Corps and US Army.**General Characteristics
Primary function:**Reconnaissance and surveillance with low-altitude operation**Contractor:**Aerovironment, Inc. (Increment III)**Power plant:**Electric motor, rechargeable lithium ion batteries**Wingspan:** 28.5 inches (72.3 cm)**Length:**10 inches (25.4 cm)**Weight (air vehicle):** 1 pound (453 grams)**Weight: (total system)** 14.4 pounds (6.53 kilograms)
Speed: **20 - 40 mph
Operating altitude:**From 150 to 500+ feet above ground level (to 152+ meters)**Altitude:**1,000 feet**System Cost:**approximately $49,000 (2006 dollars)**Payload:**High resolution, day/night camera
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