AeroVironment introduces the new enhanced RQ-20A Puma AE 

Photo Courtesy of AeroVironment

By Ashley Addington 



AeroVironment has introduced a new enhanced model of its hand-launched RQ-20A Puma AE, which adds a precision navigation system with a secondary GPS, an auxiliary payload bay and an advanced propulsion system with smart battery technology.  



The new upgrades will allow the Puma to perform better and more efficiently, the company says. It also has added durability with a redesigned fuselage and reinforced construction.   



“Our enhanced Puma delivers more capability to expand its usefulness above and beyond what is expected from a Tier I UAS. It 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,” says Roy Minson, AeroVironment senior vice president and general manager of the company’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems business segment. 



The enhanced version of the 13.5-pound, weatherproof Puma is due early next year. The new propulsion system adds a 75 percent boost in flight time, up to 3.5 hours, and is compatible with possible future power systems such as solar and fuel cells.