Switchblade Getting Closer

Training of operators of mini-UAV Switchblade with the U.S. Army. New weapons - which might occur as a reconnaissance aircraft or guided missile - will go to Afghanistan in the summer. Start Switchblade a Visible small container startup and operation panel. The set weighs about 3.5 kg / Photo: AeroVironment

American AeroVironment, a famous producer of the mini-UAV, including the family of RQ-11 Raven (they produced about 20 thousand.), Received in June 2011 commissioned by the U.S. Army to supply an undisclosed number of cameras Switchblade.


They have a mass about 1.4 kg and a wingspan of the order of several centimeters. Carry miniature cameras day and night, as well as a small explosive charge. Standard height of flight is limited to approximately 170 m, due to the quality of observing systems. The aircraft is powered by an electric motor that provides endurance of 30 minutes.

The tests conducted so far shows that a small warhead strength is compensated precision - most of the test Switchblade goes in a circle with a diameter of 1 m this way, they become far cheaper alternative to ppk used as direct support of infantry weapons, such as the destruction of the individual nests of resistance, the positions of machine guns and mortars.


Photo mini-UAV hit the formation of special forces brigade, and two battle groups, including the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. Their use by soldiers - both in the classroom on simulators and flight training - showed that the effective use of Switchblade requires considerable skill from the operator.

Part equipped with a mini-UAV units, including infantry brigade, already mentioned, will be sent to Afghanistan in late spring. It is planned that the operators, after additional training in this country, will use the cameras in the summer.

Positive tests resulted in further orders AeroVironment. In mid-May to officially joined the Marine Corps, Marines, although it only bought 5 copies for testing purposes. May 23 while the U.S. Army has already made a second contract, worth 5.1 million USD, which consists of upgrading Switchblade - as specified by the user - the supply of new UAV and ensure their maintenance.