AeroVironment‘s Switchblade 300 loitering missile system has been upgraded to Block 20, which includes new operational features and improved performance and capabilities compared to the previous Block 10C version. The Switchblade 300 is a rapidly deployable system that can be used for a variety of missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, and precision strike. The Block 20 version is expected to further enhance its capabilities and performance, making it even more effective for military and other security applications.

The Switchblade 300 Block 20 is a user-friendly, lightweight, and portable system that can be operated by a single person. It features a new Fire Control System that utilizes a tablet interface, making it easier for operators to train, plan, and execute missions. Additionally, the system has been designed to simplify operation by integrating control functions directly onto the launcher tube. This enhanced user experience is expected to increase the system’s effectiveness and make it an even more valuable asset for military and security operations.

“Since pioneering the loitering missile category with Switchblade 300 more than a decade ago, our tactical missile systems have proven to be a game-changing capability for both U.S. and allied forces, providing a remarkably rapid, precise and effective way to address lethal threats,” said Brett Hush, AeroVironment’s vice president and product line general manager of tactical missile systems. “Switchblade 300 Block 20 will continue to build on the system’s battle-proven legacy.”

The Switchblade 300 Block 20 is an incredibly lightweight lethal missile that weighs less than five pounds. It is precision-guided and can be quickly deployed within two minutes via tube launch from land, sea, or mobile platforms, providing enhanced mission flexibility. This upgraded version offers a longer endurance, improved Digital Data Link (DDL) range, and new EO/IR panning camera suite, as well as left-hand commit with continuous positive identification (PID). It also maintains its patented wave-off capability, which allows the operator to recommit against moving targets in highly dynamic environments. Overall, these enhancements are expected to increase the system’s effectiveness and enable it to be used in a wider range of scenarios.

The Switchblade 300 Block 20 is an ideal solution for small expeditionary units that require precise and lethal capabilities with minimal collateral damage. With over 20 minutes of tactical reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition capabilities, this system provides real-time video for use against beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) targets. The Cursor-on-Target GPS coordinates enable situational awareness, information collection, targeting, and feature/object recognition, which altogether deliver actionable intelligence and precision firepower needed to achieve mission success across multiple domains. Overall, this system offers a powerful and effective tool for small units operating in challenging environments. (Press Release)

Post Image- AeroVironment Switchblade 300 Block 20 Deployable Loitering Missile System- Image Credit- AeroVironment, Inc. (with permission)

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