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AeroVironment has been awarded a $55.3 million contract to deliver its Switchblade loitering munitions to the U.S. Army as part of the Directed Requirement for Lethal Unmanned Systems (LUS) initiative. This contract marks the second order in a five-year deal valued at up to $900 million, which was initially awarded in August. The LUS initiative is designed to assist infantry soldiers’ in combating fortified targets.
The contract covers both the Switchblade 300 and Switchblade 600 loitering munitions, which are man-portable and designed for rapid deployment in combat situations. These systems are expected to provide U.S. Army forces with advanced, precision strike capabilities on the battlefield.
The Switchblade 300, weighing just 2.5 kilograms, offers a flight endurance of up to 15 minutes and a range of 10 kilometers. This lightweight, man-portable system is ideal for quick-response missions, allowing soldiers to strike targets with minimal setup time.
In contrast, the Switchblade 600 is a more advanced variant, designed for engaging harder, more fortified targets. Weighing 15 kilograms, the Switchblade 600 boasts an extended flight endurance of 40 minutes and an impressive range of 40 kilometers. Equipped with advanced sensors and precision flight control, the Switchblade 600 can effectively engage enemy targets at greater distances, ensuring greater operational flexibility.
As part of the company’s press release, AeroVironment’s Senior Vice President of Loitering Munition Systems, Brett Hush, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting the U.S. Army with the most capable solutions. He explained that the expanded production capacity and streamlined supply chain allow AeroVironment to ensure rapid fielding and support of the systems.
With these loitering munitions, infantry soldiers will be equipped with a versatile and potent tool for modern warfare. The systems are designed to enhance battlefield effectiveness, providing soldiers with the ability to strike targets at a distance with pinpoint accuracy. This latest contract is a part of ongoing efforts to streamline production and ensure that the U.S. Army receives rapid, effective support for its evolving needs on the battlefield.
