Top Summary
This bill requires the Commandant to conduct a study within 180 days of enactment to assess the feasibility of expanding medium unmanned aircraft system capabilities from National Security Cutters to Medium Endurance Cutters and Offshore Patrol Cutters, with a report to be submitted to Congress within one year, detailing the feasibility, mission capabilities enhanced by the systems, and projected procurement and operational costs.
Original Bill Text:
SEC. 337.Medium unmanned aircraft systems capabilities study.
(a) In general.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall conduct a study to determine the feasibility of expanding the National Security Cutter’s medium unmanned aircraft system capabilities to Medium Endurance Cutters and Offshore Patrol Cutters.
(b) Report.—
(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a written report that contains the results of the study conducted under subsection (a).
(2) CONTENTS.—In submitting the study under paragraph (1), the Commandant shall determine—
(A) the feasibility of equipping Offshore Patrol Cutters and Medium Endurance Cutters with medium unmanned aircraft systems;
(B) the missions capabilities that would be strengthen by the use of such systems; and
(V) projected procurement and operational costs for acquiring such systems.