Ascent’s Spirit UAV Earns Dual Spot on Pentagon Blue UAS Approved Lists

The Pentagon’s Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has granted Ascent AeroSystems’ Spirit coaxial uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) a unique dual recognition within its Blue UAS program.

The rugged platform is now the only airframe to appear on both the Blue UAS Cleared List — as a fully evaluated, government-approved complete system — and the Blue UAS Framework, which designates it as a vetted component for integration into other platforms.

This dual status enables Department of Defense (DoD) agencies to rapidly deploy Spirit either as a stand-alone UAV or as part of a larger system architecture, eliminating redundant approval requirements.

“The Spirit is now the only UAV approved by DIU as both a complete system and as a component,” said company Co-founder and CEO Peter Fuchs, highlighting how the recognition portrays it as a reliable drone and supports the DoD’s needs for modular, open systems. 

Modular and Rugged Platform 

The Spirit UAV is a compact, coaxial, and rugged platform.

Measuring 12 inches (30 centimeters) tall and 4.2 inches (10.66 centimeters) wide with a maximum takeoff weight of 13.5 pounds (6.1 kilograms), it can carry payloads of up to 6.5 pounds (3 kilograms). 

Its flight endurance varies. With a single battery, it can fly up to 38 minutes without payload or 16 minutes with a maximum payload, while two batteries extend its operation to 53 minutes without payload or 32 minutes fully loaded.

The drone can fly at a maximum altitude of 14,600 feet (4,450 meters) and achieve a manual speed of over 60 miles (96 kilometers) per hour, with a recommended autonomous speed of 40 miles (64 kilometers) per hour. 

Built for rugged use, the system is IP56-rated, functions in temperatures from -40 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 to 54 degrees Celsius), and withstands winds above 40 miles (65 kilometers) per hour (Class 8 resistance).

Navigation is supported by GPS, GLONASS, and Beidou, with RTK support for precision.

“This could be the most significant change to the Blue program yet … As Congress advances the national strategy for Drone Dominance, operators need platforms that are not only innovative, but also proven, compliant, and ready for scale,” said Fuchs.

“Ascent is delivering those capabilities today — and ensuring our customers are positioned to lead the next chapter of US drone adoption.”