AeroVironment and Korean Air have announced a strategic partnership aimed at developing and producing a new tactical unmanned aerial system (UAS) specifically tailored for the South Korean military. The collaboration places Korean Air as AeroVironment’s principal local partner, with initial efforts centered on customizing the JUMP 20, a fixed-wing drone renowned for its vertical takeoff and landing capabilities as well as its long-range operational functionality.
This partnership marks a significant step in addressing the operational needs of South Korea’s armed forces. The companies intend to adapt the JUMP 20 system to meet the specific requirements of the South Korean military, while also fostering collaboration in areas of research, production, and technology development.
AeroVironment asserts that the introduction of the systems developed through this alliance will enhance Seoul’s UAS capabilities, preparing its armed forces to meet the evolving challenges of modern warfare, where autonomous systems play a crucial role. This partnership is anticipated to support South Korea’s ambitions to bolster its defense industry, focusing on expanding local manufacturing capabilities and pioneering new technologies, thus reducing reliance on foreign systems.
Larry Satterfield, senior director of business development for Asia Pacific at AeroVironment, commented on the significance of the agreement, emphasizing the company’s commitment to providing adaptable solutions in collaboration with trusted local partners. He noted the increasing global demand for the JUMP 20 platform, which he believes will be instrumental in meeting the emergent defense needs of Korea.
The JUMP 20 drone, noteworthy for its operational versatility, can be deployed and recovered without requiring a runway or launch system, enabling swift operations in under 30 minutes. It is equipped to carry a variety of payloads, including cameras and sensors, supporting missions related to intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and border monitoring.
The specifications of the UAS are impressive, featuring an airframe length of 10 feet (approximately 3 meters), a wingspan of 19 feet (around 6 meters), and a payload capacity of 30 pounds (approximately 14 kilograms). Its maximum gross takeoff weight is 215 pounds (about 96 kilograms). The drone is powered by a 190-cubic-centimeter Electronic Fuel Injection engine that operates using regular gasoline, allowing it to achieve a flight speed of 50 knots (58 miles or 93 kilometers per hour) and an operational altitude of up to 17,000 feet (approximately 5,181 meters). Additionally, the JUMP 20 maintains communication with its controllers over distances up to 115 miles (185 kilometers) and can remain airborne for more than 13 hours.
The JUMP 20 is already operational with various NATO member countries, including Denmark and Italy, further underscoring its reliability and effectiveness in military applications. Through this collaboration, AeroVironment and Korean Air aim to position South Korea at the forefront of advanced UAS technology, enhancing national defense capabilities in an increasingly challenging global landscape.
