Italy has taken a significant step in enhancing its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilities by signing a $46.6 million contract with AeroVironment for the procurement of Jump 20 fixed-wing UAVs. This strategic move aims to upgrade the country’s aging fleet of AAI RQ-7 Shadow drones, a transition that signals Italy’s commitment to modernizing its military technology.
Under the terms of the five-year agreement, AeroVironment will provide not only the Jump 20 UAVs but also a suite of engineering, technical support, and maintenance services. This comprehensive support is designed to ensure that the newly acquired UAVs are fully operational from the outset, thereby reinforcing Italy’s defense capabilities right from day one.
The contract aligns closely with the Italian Ministry of Defense’s directives, which emphasize the need for modern, adaptable drones capable of undertaking diverse and dynamic missions in various operational environments. The initiative is part of Italy’s broader strategy to enhance its military readiness and operational flexibility in response to evolving global security challenges.
Shane Hastings, AeroVironment’s Vice President and General Manager of medium unmanned aerial systems, expressed the company’s dedication to supporting NATO allies. He reaffirmed AeroVironment’s commitment to innovation and mission success, underscoring the company’s role as a reliable partner for its customers.
While specific details regarding the number of Jump 20 units to be delivered and their expected arrival timeline have yet to be disclosed, Italy’s recent drone modernization initiatives suggest a robust investment in advanced aerial capabilities. This includes a separate $738 million agreement with the United States for the acquisition of six MQ-9 Reaper drones from General Atomics, further augmenting Italy’s UAV fleet, which already includes five Reapers.
The Jump 20 UAV is engineered for sophisticated multi-sensor intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. Its design enables it to take off and land without the requirement of a runway or recovery equipment, enhancing its operational versatility. With a flight endurance surpassing 13 hours and an operational range of approximately 115 miles (185 kilometers), the Jump 20 offers significant advantages in long-range missions. Its payload capacity is impressive, capable of carrying up to 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms).
Additionally, the drone is equipped with an ARCAM 45D imaging sensor as well as a long-range electro-optical/multi-spectral infrared (EO/MWIR) thermal camera system, which come with advanced onboard tracking, stabilization, and video processing features. This level of technological integration positions the Jump 20 as a formidable asset in Italy’s aerial capabilities, set to offer critical reconnaissance support in a variety of operational scenarios.
