AeroVironment Switchblade

History

The Switchblade, developed by AeroVironment, is a versatile loitering munition used to neutralize concealed threats swiftly. Weighing just 5.5 pounds, it can be easily transported in a backpack and deployed within seconds using a handheld device or vehicle-mounted tube. Equipped with advanced features like foldable bipods and a tubular fuselage housing all operational components, the Switchblade ensures efficient search and destroy operations.

With GPS support and live video capabilities, the Switchblade offers enhanced precision in tracking and engaging targets. Its compact design and low operating noise make it suitable for various defense scenarios. Furthermore, it features a safety mechanism allowing operators to abort missions to minimize collateral damage, highlighting its adaptability and reliability in dynamic environments.

In addition to its handheld variant, the Switchblade can be deployed using a vehicle-mounted launcher, accommodating up to six missiles. This launcher provides flexibility on the battlefield, allowing deployment on different platforms such as vehicles, warships, and aircraft. With its impressive range, battery life, and speed, the Switchblade stands as a potent tool for modern military operations, offering rapid response capabilities with minimal logistical footprint.

Specification

Basics

Year of Service: 2020

Origins: United States

Status: Active.

Crew: 1

Production: 2,000

Manufacturer: AeroVironment - USA

Carrier: Ukraine; United States

Roles

Intelligence-Surveillance-Reconnaissance (ISR), Scouts: Monitor ground targets/target areas to assess surrounding threat levels, enemy strength, or enemy movement.

Special Forces: Serve special forces/special operations forces and missions.

Unmanned ability: Aircraft designed (or later developed) have inherent unmanned capabilities and can fill a variety of battlefield roles.

Notable features

Unmanned operation: The design features the ability to fly without a pilot, with actions controlled by onboard programming and/or ground operators.

Autonomous operation: The design features autonomous flight operations through artificial intelligence or onboard pre-programming.

Camera equipment: Payload supports photographic devices that provide still and/or live image/video results.

Dimensions and Weights

Curb Weight: 4 lbs (2 kg)

MTOW: 4 lbs (2 kg)

MAINPLANE STRUCTURE

Monoplane: Designed to use a single main wing main aircraft; this is the most popular arrangement of main aircraft.

Install low: The main aircraft is mounted low on the side of the fuselage.

Straight: Floor plans involve the use of simple, straight main plan elements.

Performance

Installed: 1 x engine in a thruster configuration drives a two-bladed propeller at the rear of the fuselage.

Maximum speed: 100 km/h (161 km/h | 87 kn)

Area: 6 km (10 km | 19 nautical miles)

Weapons

Modular Payload (Northrop Grumman Advanced Ammunition).

VARIANTS

Switchblade MPL - Multi-Pack Launcher includes six Switchblade drones with fast reload capability; for warships, vehicles and aircraft.