New Group 2 UAS supports long-range reconnaissance and battlefield adaptability
AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV) has delivered its first P550™ autonomous Group 2 eVTOL unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to the U.S. Army under the Long-Range Reconnaissance (LRR) program. The delivery marks the start of integration into Transformation in Contact (TiC) brigades and other designated units.
The initial shipment included multiple P550 systems as well as training for new equipment operators and master trainers. This approach is designed to ensure rapid fielding and mission readiness.
A Milestone for the Army and AeroVironment
According to AeroVironment, the long range reconnaissance P550 is a new product line developed with a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA). This design supports rapid adaptation in contested environments with multiple payload, radio, and power options. The company notes that the system builds on decades of UAS development and proven systems already fielded with the Department of Defense and more than 50 allied nations.
“We are proud to deliver the P550 to Army units, empowering warfighters with a system that can quickly adapt to fluid combat scenarios, providing unmatched reliability and flexibility,” said Trace Stevenson, AV’s President of Autonomous Systems. “Our team remains committed to supporting the Army with seamless delivery, training, and sustainment to ensure these systems are ready when needed.”
Features of the P550
The P550 is designed as a Group 2 eVTOL system with a focus on adaptability and ease of deployment. Key features include:
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Payload capacity: up to 15 pounds
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Endurance: up to 5 hours on battery power
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Gross Take-Off Weight (GTOW): 55 pounds
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Reconfiguration time: under five minutes without tools, including hot-swapping payloads and batteries
The system incorporates AI-driven autonomy for safer operations and advanced situational awareness. Its scalable architecture is intended to support continuous upgrades, keeping pace with technology while minimizing cost and risk.
Training and Field Integration
AeroVironment’s field service representatives provided comprehensive training during the initial delivery. Master trainers completed a “train-the-trainer” program to prepare units for rapid integration of the systems into operations. The Army is expected to receive additional orders to support evolving mission requirements.
About AeroVironment
AeroVironment (AV) is a defense technology company that provides systems across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains. Its portfolio includes autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and electronic warfare capabilities. With a national manufacturing footprint, AV continues to develop both combat-proven and future-focused solutions for defense forces. More information is available at www.avinc.com.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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