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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 comprised 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 more information specific to each challenge, please visit the following webpages:
Challenge results: winners by challenge
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 |
| Team Mantech/Flyt Aerospace | $30,000 |
| Team ARCC from Penn State University | $30,000 |
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: