AeroVironment, Inc., a world chief in clever, multi-domain robotic programs, in the present day launched Puma™ VNS, a visual-based navigation system for Puma 2 AE and Puma 3 AE small unmanned plane programs (SUAS) that may allow GPS-denied navigation throughout more and more GPS-contested environments. The system will present operators with frequently superior navigation capabilities, options and performance by anticipated software program and {hardware} updates. The system may even allow the combination of future autonomy capabilities. Puma VNS is accessible as an add-on possibility for brand new Puma 3 AE system orders and as a retrofit equipment for fielded Puma 2 AE and Puma 3 AE programs.
“Puma VNS offers operators an unprecedented benefit within the battlefield,” stated Hint Stevenson, AeroVironment vice chairman and product line basic supervisor for SUAS. “Operators now can execute missions with extra confidence in GPS-contested atmosphere with the system’s new navigational capabilities.”
Commercial
The following-generation navigation system incorporates a suite of down-looking sensors that collect imagery knowledge and observe options on the bottom, in addition to an embedded compute module to course of and decide the exact location of an plane whereas it’s in flight. The system mechanically transitions to and from GPS-denied navigation mode with none enter from the operator. The third-generation Puma 3 delivers mission vital ISR in all environments. Redesigned to ship class-leading efficiency, the light-weight group 1 UAS incorporates a strengthened airframe with an non-obligatory below wing transit bay for secondary payloads and third-party purposes.
AeroVironment, Inc. is an American protection contractor headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, that designs and manufactures unmanned aerial autos (UAVs). Dr. Paul B. MacCready Jr., a designer of human-powered plane, based the corporate in 1971. The corporate is finest recognized for its light-weight human-powered and solar-powered autos. The corporate is the US navy’s high provider of small drones — notably the Raven, Switchblade, Wasp and Puma fashions. In January 2021, the corporate acquired Arcturus UAV, the producer of the Arcturus T-20 UAV for US$405m.