AeroVironment (AV), a global leader in multi-domain robotic systems, has announced a new $288 million delivery order for its Switchblade loitering munition systems as part of the U.S. Army’s Directed Requirement (DR) for Lethal Unmanned Systems (LUS).
This is the third award in the past 12 months, bringing the total contract value to $471.3 million.
The details were given in a 3 February media release, to announce that this latest award is part of a broader multi-year contract with a ceiling of $990 million, which AeroVironment secured in August 2024. The agreement underscores the U.S. Army’s growing reliance on loitering munition technology to enhance battlefield capabilities.
“AV is honored to continue fulfilling this important contract providing the U.S. Army with exceptional and reliable loitering munition solutions,” said Brett Hush, AV’s senior vice president and general manager of Loitering Munition Systems. “We continue to deliver for the U.S. Army with our superior supply chain and manufacturing capacity.”
The Switchblade loitering munition system has been a critical asset for modern military operations. Designed for extended-range engagement, the system provides operators with precision targeting and multi-mission capabilities. The combat-proven weapon features advanced optics and extended loitering endurance, allowing operators to engage targets with high accuracy while minimizing collateral damage.
The increased investment in Switchblade systems aligns with the U.S. military’s broader shift toward autonomous and precision-guided munitions. Loitering munitions, sometimes referred to as “kamikaze drones,” offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional airstrikes, allowing forces to target enemy positions with real-time reconnaissance and precision-guided strikes.