Three Next-Generation Options Deliver Mission-Flexible, Scalable Lethality

AeroVironment, a global provider of loitering munition systems, announced three new variants of its Switchblade family of precision loitering munitions: the Switchblade 600 Block 2, the Switchblade 400, and the Switchblade 300 Block 20 equipped with a modular explosively formed penetrator (EFP) payload.

The new systems broaden the Switchblade line across echelons and mission objectives, from individual backpackable close-in lethal precision effects to multi-domain, long-endurance anti-armor solutions. These ensure warfighters are able to maintain tactical advantage in contested environments.

Trace Stevenson, President of Autonomous Systems at AV said, “Warfighters require scalable, reliable, and interoperable effects that can be tailored to the threat and the environment. These three new Switchblade variants deliver that flexibility and scalability. Each design builds on proven fielded capability while adding important new capabilities that reduce risk and expand mission sets.”

Switchblade 600 Block 2 is a next-generation, long-endurance loitering munition with advance avionics, precision targeting, and a secondary payload bay that adds multi-mission flexibility or redundancy. It also provides 20 percent longer endurance, with a 100+ km handoff and relay range as well as an IP67 rating for maritime applications.

The Switchblade 400 is an all-new medium-range, man-portable anti-armor loitering munition with RATO, or rocket-assisted takeoff. With an all-up weight of under 40 pounds, a single soldier has lethal standoff capability in under five minutes to defeat a tank or heavily armored targets with precision accuracy.

The proven Switchblade 300 Block 20 now has a modular payload bay that supports an EFP or explosively formed penetrator warhead for improved lethality against armored vehicles. The all-up round is under 8 pounds, enabling a single operator to deliver the backpackable precision loitering munition beyond line of sight in less than two minutes.

The MOSA or modular open systems approach design permits seamless integration with command and control platforms such as ATAK, Nett Warrior, and AV_Halo Command Tactical software. Their common design architecture enables the systems to use the same tablet-based Fire Control user interface that includes wave-off and recommit, encrypted datalinks, and mission planning that reduce logistical burdens and operator training time.

FMI:  www.avinc.com/