Tactically Exploited Reconnaissance Node

Tactically Exploited Reconnaissance Node (TERN), a joint program between DARPA and the U.S. Navy’s Office of Naval Research (ONR), seeks to greatly increase the effectiveness of forward-deployed small-deck ships such as destroyers and frigates by enabling them to serve as mobile launch and recovery sites for specially designed unmanned aerial systems (UAS). These vehicles are to carry 600 pounds of ordinance in order to conduct combat strikes.

History
Northrop Grumman won the contract to develop the project in December 2015.