AeroVironment introduced a series of enhancements to its RQ-20A Puma AE small unmanned aircraft system that include new features and capabilities.
Enhancements include the advanced propulsion system and smart battery technology; precision navigation system with secondary GPS; and a redesigned fuselage for added durability. The enhanced Puma AE will be available the first quarter of 2014.
“Puma has proven itself a valuable tool to military and other government agencies, and with its recent type-certification by the Federal Aviation Administration, will soon help more domestic customers perform important jobs more safely and effectively,” said Roy Minson, AeroVironment senior vice president and general manager of the company’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems business segment. “Our enhanced Puma delivers more capability to expand its usefulness above and beyond what is expected from a Tier I UAS.”
The 13.5-pound Puma AE is fully waterproof, man-portable and can be assembled in minutes, hand-launched, operated and recovered on sea or land by a team of two people.