Expendable Aerial Vehicle for Reconnaissance and Assault Mission (EAVRAM)

The EAVRAM Program, short for Expendable Aerial Vehicle for Reconnaissance and Assault Mission, is a tactical drone initiative designed with cost-efficiency and rapid manufacturability in mind. Built largely from off-the-shelf, commercially available components, EAV-RAM aims to provide a versatile and expendable aerial asset that can be quickly deployed—even under adversarial conditions—to meet urgent military and civilian needs. Its design philosophy not only ensures ease of production but also allows the system to bypass potential sanctions and blockades during conflicts, given its essential role for the general populace.

Central to the program is a family of designs that cater to different operational environments and mission profiles, enhancing military versatility at a low cost. The program currently offers three distinct variants:

EAVRAM

This standard fixed-wing tactical drone is designed for both reconnaissance and attack operations. Featuring a modular design that facilitates on-field assembly and transport, the EAVRAM minimizes logistical burdens without compromising tactical capability. Its outer skin is constructed from waxed foamboard, a material chosen for its light weight, ease of manufacturing, and adequate strength. The main frame is 3D printed plastic, offering a balance of lightness and structural integrity. Weighing around 5 kg, it can carry additional payloads of up to 5 kg. This payload versatility allows it to be outfitted with armaments ranging from 40mm grenade rounds to an RPG-7 warhead.

Moreover, these systems could also be deployed for humanitarian or logistical causes serving to transport different goods such as supplies like food, water, medicine, and ammunition.

EAVRAM-Mini

As a scaled-down version of the standard EAVRAM, the Mini is tailored for missions where a smaller, more agile platform is required. While it retains many of the core features of its larger counterpart—such as modularity and ease of assembly—its reduced size offers enhanced maneuverability and lower logistical demands, making it suitable for urban environments or confined operational theaters.

D-EAVRAM

This variant is designed with specific operational adaptations in mind, addressing unique mission requirements that might call for different configurations or specialized equipment. D-EAVRAM leverages the same foundational design principles of modularity and commercial off-the-shelf components but is customized for particular tactical scenarios, offering an additional layer of versatility within the EAVRAM family.

Program Milestones of EAVRAM

The development of the EAVRAM Program has already reached significant milestones. In its initial phase during 2023, an early prototype was successfully fabricated and demonstrated to key stakeholders, including officials from the Naval Research and Technology Development Center (NRTDC) of the Philippine Navy, as well as academic and military leaders from Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSUIIT) and other branches of the armed forces. High-ranking officials and academic leaders were present during this pivotal presentation, signaling enduring support from the Philippine Navy. Subsequent visits by Philippine Army officials have further underscored the program’s broad potential applications across various battlefield conditions.

Beyond its tactical applications, the EAVRAM Program holds promise for significant civilian benefits. With potential roles in disaster assessment and response, the program is positioned to expand beyond the military domain under continued advice and support from the Philippine Military and the government. By harnessing innovation in affordable drone technology, EAVRAM aims not only to transform tactical operations but also to contribute to the broader vision of a safer, more resilient Philippines.

Influencing the Future

The EAVRAM Program is a highly promising initiative that could significantly enhance national defense while also extending its benefits to civilian sectors. With continued support from the Philippine Military and government, EAVRAM is poised to influence the future by offering rapid, cost-effective aerial capabilities that can be adapted for a wide range of applications—from battlefield operations to disaster relief. EAV-RAM aims not only to soar but also to shape a greater future for the Philippines, setting the stage for both tactical superiority and broader societal impact.

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