Leidos, Paramount USA and Vertex Aerospace enter final phase of armed overwatch competition

RESTON, Va. - Leidos announced its team was selected to enter the final phase of the U.S. Special Operations Command’s (USSOCOM) Armed Overwatch aircraft prototype program. Leidos, Paramount USA, and Vertex were among five teams awarded a total of $19.3 million for prototype demonstrations and will advance Bronco II to the Phase III Operational Prototype Demonstration later this month.

The Bronco II is designed for ultimate mission flexibility. The aircraft’s unique internal Interchangeable Multi-Mission System Bay (IMSB) allows for a single airframe to be easily and rapidly re-configured to perform multiple roles (e.g. ISR, SCAR, FAC(A), CAS) incorporating high-performance sensors, network communication systems, precision weapons, an electronic self-protection suite, and mission planning systems.

“Our team combines decades of experience both integrating and manufacturing cutting-edge airborne solutions for the warfighter,” said Gerry Fasano, Leidos Defense Group president. “We are thrilled to have been selected to compete in the final phase.”