The Green UAS frameworks address threats and risks across four key assessment areas: Corporate Cyber Hygiene, Product and Device Security, Remote Operations and Connectivity, and Supply Chain Risk Management. Each framework includes defined security controls against which organizations and products are assessed and validated.
Applicants may pursue certification through one of two pathways:
- Green UAS Certification (All Four Frameworks) — a full-scope assessment across all framework areas, designed for organizations seeking comprehensive assurance and advanced compliance maturity.
- Green UAS Cleared Certification (Streamlined Pathway) — focuses on the two core frameworks, Product and Device Security and Supply Chain Risk Management, providing a faster route to alignment with DIU’s Blue UAS Cleared status.
Both Green UAS and Green UAS Cleared certifications maintain rigorous standards for cybersecurity and supply chain assurance — and both serve as direct pathways for consideration under DIU’s Blue UAS Cleared list.
Organizations that complete the assessment process and meet framework requirements are designated Green UAS certified, indicating verified compliance with the applicable frameworks. Applicants may remediate issues identified during the process and resubmit for certification. Certified products are entered into a continuous monitoring process to ensure sustained compliance.
Product and Device Security
Assessment of the drone, component, or system to verify it has been designed, developed, and manufactured to protect the integrity and security of data supporting uncrewed systems and mission operations. Security controls are evaluated based on operational context, application, and criticality.
Supply Chain Risk Management
Physical vulnerability assessment of the platform and all associated hardware (payloads, control stations, controllers, etc.). Includes a review of components and subcomponents for NDAA compliance for those pursuing Blue UAS/DoD use. For non-DoD systems, the Green UAS framework provides flexibility based on criticality and use case, while maintaining transparency to support informed acquisition decisions. Manufacturers are required to provide a Software Bill of Materials (SBOM), Hardware Bill of Materials (HBOM), and submit a complete platform for teardown and evaluation.
Corporate Cyber Hygiene (Optional)
Assessment of an organization’s enterprise cybersecurity strategy, program, and controls. Reviews alignment with leading frameworks such as ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), along with similarly recognized standards and best practices.
Remote Operations & Connectivity (Optional)
Assessment of connectivity and remote operation capabilities to ensure that command and control (C2) of uncrewed systems can only be conducted by authorized operators, and that telemetry and mission data remain secure. Currently not required for systems seeking transition from Green UAS to Blue UAS Cleared status.
Green UAS and Blue UAS Alignment
The Green UAS certification program builds upon and extends the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)’s Blue UAS framework, now managed by DCMA. While Blue UAS is designed for systems directly supporting DoD missions, Green UAS supports the broader commercial and non-DoD market through a rigorous, standardized vetting process aligned with federal cybersecurity and supply chain standards.
Both Green UAS Cleared and Green UAS Certified pathways serve as direct transition opportunities to Blue UAS Cleared status, providing manufacturers and developers with a trusted route to demonstrate compliance and readiness for government and commercial procurement.
