Rapid Payload Swap – New Technology

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New payload (camera, radar, etc.) interface kits will enable third-party payload manufacturers, US Department of Defense, and international partners, to quickly and easily develop and integrate payloads onto RQ-20B Puma unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

AeroVironment has recently introduced its standardized modular payload interface kits for the Puma to comply with the Modular Payload Standard established by US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). The move creates a modular architectural standard for a wide variety of payloads on Groups 1 through 3 UAS. 

The company’s standardized modular payload interface kit is a self-contained unit that provides all of the mechanical and electrical interfaces required to enable RQ-20B Puma to mate with new payloads, regardless of whether or not they were developed specifically for the RQ-20B Puma platform. This interface kit allows for more rapid integration of new payloads, and reduces time and complexity for operators to swap them on the flight line and reduces government cost for new integrations, according to the company’s announcement on its website.