The US Army is soliciting technology concepts for a "cargo pocket" unmanned air vehicle (UAV), capable of providing "around the corner" tactical intelligence.

The solicitation requires only that concepts fit within certain size, weight and power requirements, and be capable of station-keeping - hovering - indoors and outside.

The US Army currently has no such technology deployed among field troops. British soldiers have recently sent to Afghanistan the Prox Dynamics Black Hornet, pocket-sized rotary-wing UAV, which they have operated with rave reviews.

Similar concepts from US companies have included everything from a miniature quad-rotor to a live beetle controlled via electric brain stimulation.

The Army did not immediately respond to questions.

Source: Flight International