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2021 First Responder UAS Triple Challenge
The First Responder Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Triple Challenge from NIST PSCR served to help save lives faster and support advancing first responder search and rescue (SAR) operations. With a total of up to $720K in awards, this competition was comprised of three challenges with three different focus areas — all aimed at advancing UAS technology to support critical, lifesaving missions.
As with every UAS challenge, the aim of this challenge was to help ensure that our nation's first responders have access to the latest in UAS technology. Prize recipients were determined by a panel of judges, assisted by a team of subject matter experts, through each stage of the competitions. For the most up-to-date contest information, refer to the contestant page here: https://www.uastriplechallenge.com/.
Stage 3 Winners Announced!
Challenge 3.1: FastFind Stage 3 Live Demonstration Winners
| Award | Winner | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Place | Team AMAV from University of Maryland | $40,000 |
| 2nd Place | Team ARCC from Penn State University | $20,000 |
| 3rd Place | Team Aggie from NCAT/Purdue University | $10,000 |
| First Responder's Choice Award | Team AMAV from University of Maryland | $5,000 |
Challenge 3.2: LifeLink Stage 3 Live Demonstration Winners
| Award | Winner | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Place | Team ARCC from Penn State University | $40,000 |
| 2nd Place | Team Mantech/FLYT Aerospace | $20,000 |
| 3rd Place | Team EpiSci | $10,000 |
| First Responder's Choice Award | Team ARCC from Penn State University | $5,000 |
Challenge 3.3: Shields Up! Stage 3 Live Demonstration Winners
| Winner | Amount |
|---|---|
| CNA Corporation and RIIS LLC | $30,000 |
| ManTech / FLYT Aerospace | $30,000 |
| ARCC - Pennsylvania State University | $30,000 |
Challenge Background
The theme of the Challenge was carefully selected to describe each of the three unique challenge goals.
Challenge 3.1: FastFind
Total Award: $260K
The first challenge (FastFind) focused on increasing the speed of search and rescue operations where direct visual contact with a potential subject may be obscured. Learn more.
Challenge 3.2: LifeLink
Total Award: $260K
The second challenge (LifeLink) centered on the resilience of network connectivity in remote areas where access to network connectivity may be denied. Learn more.
Challenge 3.3: Shields Up!
Total Award: $200K
The third challenge (Shields Up!) related to enhancing the security of both command and control as well as navigational communications between the drone and its ground station. Learn more.
The First Responder UAS Triple Challenge was hosted by NIST’s PSCR Division and managed by Kansas State University, in partnership with Mississippi State University. Each challenge may be found on Challenge.gov: