S.1869 - Helicopter Operational Versatility and Enhanced Readiness Act of 2025; HOVER Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1869, the Helicopter Operational Versatility and Enhanced Readiness Act of 2025 (HOVER Act of 2025), directs the Secretary of Defense to establish an operational experimentation program for optionally piloted vehicle (OPV) rotary-wing aircraft. The program aims to evaluate the military utility of OPVs in contested environments, assess their integration with crewed aircraft, analyze cost and maintenance benefits, develop new tactics, and complement ongoing Army science and technology efforts. The Act mandates the conversion of at least three existing Army rotary-wing aircraft into OPVs and requires a report to Congress on the program's progress and findings.
Expected Effects
The HOVER Act will likely lead to increased investment in and development of autonomous flight technology within the military. This could result in more efficient and versatile military operations. It will also provide data to inform future procurement decisions regarding optionally piloted vehicle platforms.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced military capabilities through the use of advanced technology.
- Potential cost savings due to autonomous flight.
- Development of new tactics and procedures for Army aviation.
- Collaboration with the defense industry, universities, and research institutions.
- Improved interoperability with Joint All-Domain Operations initiatives.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential risks associated with the use of autonomous systems in combat.
- Possible job displacement for pilots and other aviation personnel.
- The cost of converting existing aircraft and conducting the experimentation program.
- Reliance on special use airspace may limit testing and evaluation opportunities.
- Ethical concerns related to autonomous weapons systems.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and raise and support armies. The allocation of resources for military experimentation and development falls under this purview. There are no apparent infringements on individual liberties or rights as defined in the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).