AeroVironment Demonstrates First-Ever Switchblade Loitering Missile Integration for Air Launched Effects from JUMP 20 Medium Unmanned Aircraft System

Rhea-AI Summary

AeroVironment (NASDAQ: AVAV) successfully demonstrated the integration of its Switchblade® 300 loitering missiles with the JUMP® 20 unmanned aircraft system (UAS) in August 2021. This proof-of-concept event showcased a successful air launch and recovery of both systems, enhancing mission autonomy and efficacy. The combination allows for persistent surveillance, improving target identification while minimizing collateral damage. AeroVironment's advanced capabilities position it as a leader in intelligent robotic systems for defense and commercial applications.

Positive

• Successful integration of Switchblade 300 and JUMP 20 enhances operational effectiveness.
• Demonstration proves mission autonomy benefits, improving target identification and reducing collateral damage.
• Positioning as a leader in intelligent, multi-domain robotic systems may attract more contracts.

Negative

• None.

• Initial proof-of-concept demonstration conducted in August 2021
• Leverages an AeroVironment end-to-end solution with combat-proven systems for increased mission autonomy and efficacy

ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global leader in intelligent, multi-domain robotic systems, today announced the successful demonstration of integrating Switchblade® 300 loitering missiles and JUMP® 20 medium unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for increased mission autonomy and efficacy. This Air Launched Effects (ALE) proof-of-concept demonstration took place in August 2021 with the goal of launching an inert Switchblade 300 from the JUMP 20 and successfully recovering both air vehicles.

The systems were integrated by fixing the inert Switchblade 300 tube-launch system to the existing JUMP 20 platform’s vertical lift boom with a custom-made bolt-on mount and firing solution. Switchblade 300 was remotely fired using the JUMP 20 ground control solution with in-flight control taken by a separate Switchblade ground element. Both vehicles were successfully recovered, proving the demonstration event to be the first-ever Switchblade 300 integration and air launch from a JUMP 20 Group 3 vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) platform.

“This end-to-end integrated solution enables customers with greater time on station than if they were to deploy a Switchblade on its own, resulting in the ability to conduct persistent real-time surveillance to increase the chance of identifying the correct target and minimizing collateral damage,” said Brett Hush, AeroVironment vice president and product line general manager of tactical missile systems. “It combines the combat-proven Switchblade loitering missile’s lethality, reach and precision strike capabilities with low collateral effects and the VTOL, fixed-wing JUMP 20’s advanced multi-sensor ISR services and 14-hour endurance.”

ABOUT AEROVIRONMENT, INC.

AeroVironment (NASDAQ: AVAV) provides technology solutions at the intersection of robotics, sensors, software analytics and connectivity that deliver more actionable intelligence so you can Proceed with Certainty. Headquartered in Virginia, AeroVironment is a global leader in intelligent, multi-domain robotic systems and serves defense, government and commercial customers. For more information, visit www.avinc.com.

SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT

Certain statements in this press release may constitute "forward-looking statements" as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are made on the basis of current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors outside of our control, that may cause our business, strategy or actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, our ability to perform under existing contracts and obtain additional contracts; changes in the regulatory environment; the activities of competitors; failure of the markets in which we operate to grow; failure to expand into new markets; failure to develop new products or integrate new technology with current products; and general economic and business conditions in the United States and elsewhere in the world. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211103005159/en/

Makayla Thomas

AeroVironment, Inc.

+1 (805) 520-8350

pr@avinc.com

Mark Boyer

For AeroVironment, Inc.

+1 (213) 247-4109

mark@boyersyndicate.com

Source: AeroVironment, Inc.

FAQ

What was demonstrated by AeroVironment in August 2021?

AeroVironment demonstrated the integration of the Switchblade® 300 loitering missiles with the JUMP® 20 unmanned aircraft system.

How does the integration of Switchblade 300 and JUMP 20 benefit missions?

This integration enhances mission autonomy, improves target identification, and minimizes collateral damage.

What is the stock symbol for AeroVironment?

The stock symbol for AeroVironment is AVAV.

What is the significance of the proof-of-concept demonstration for investors?

The successful demonstration may increase investor confidence in AeroVironment's market position and operational capabilities.

How does the Switchblade 300 integration affect operational efficiency?

The integration allows for greater time on station, resulting in enhanced persistent real-time surveillance.