DoD Unmanned Aircraft Systems have historically been developed through proprietary stovepipes driven by the need to field capability quickly to support immediate operational requirements. Accordingly, UAS interoperability has not been a priority and fielded systems can generally demonstrate only limited interoperability with other manned and unmanned platforms across Services. As more and more UAS are fielded, open systems architectures and profiles that support interoperability will be required to further enable a broader network-centric environment.

The DOD can accomplish UAS interoperability by standardizing critical interfaces within the overall UAS system architecture. The DOD must clearly and consistently define the communication protocols and message formats across these interfaces. The Interoperability integrated product team (IPT) will define the interoperability standards profiles through the Joint Interoperability Control Working Group (JICWG) for incorporation into the JCIDS process to enable acquisition, technology and logistics life cycle management efficiencies across current and future UAS.

This IPT will establish an interoperability framework that includes an implementation plan, a communications strategy to the stakeholders, and a comprehensive and integrated strategy to align departmental and Service efforts to improve interoperability and the operational use of UAS.