The HOVER Act requires the Secretary of the Army to launch a two-year experimental program testing helicopters and other rotary-wing aircraft that can operate either with pilots or autonomously. The Army must convert at least three existing helicopters into these "optionally piloted vehicles" and test them in military airspace to evaluate their military usefulness in combat situations, how well they work alongside crewed aircraft, and potential cost savings. The program aims to develop new tactics and procedures for Army aviation while coordinating with defense contractors, universities, and research institutions. The Secretary must report back to Congress within one year on progress, findings regarding operational efficiency and cost savings, and recommendations for whether the military should purchase more of these aircraft in the future. The bill gives the Army flexibility to adjust the program as needed to align with broader military modernization goals.
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