The U.S. is accelerating the deployment of modern loitering munitions to its ground forces.

The U.S. Department of Defense has approved a contract worth nearly $1 billion with defense contractor AeroVironment to supply Switchblade 300 and Switchblade 600 loitering munition systems – remote attack platforms highly valued for their battlefield effectiveness.

Precision Attack UAV Technology: A Solution for Modern Warfare

According to a press release from the U.S. Army, the agreement aims to enhance the tactical offensive capabilities of ground forces, providing the ability to effectively destroy enemy vehicles, fortified structures, and personnel at long distances.

The two Switchblade UAV lines are designed with a “launch – glide – strike” model, integrating a self-contained warhead, electro-optical and infrared sensor systems, along with an optional manual control. This allows operators to adjust or abort missions at any time, increasing initiative and minimizing unintended damage.

Beyond offensive functions, these UAVs are also equipped with dual cameras (optical + infrared), enabling limited short-range reconnaissance and target surveillance. This provides a tactical advantage when deployed in environments requiring quick assessment before making attack decisions.

Switchblade 300 – Compact, Maneuverable

• Flight Time: Loiters in the air for up to 20 minutes
• Operating Range: Approximately 30 km
• Total System Weight: Over 3 kg, can be carried in a personal backpack
• Features: Launched from a single tube, easy to deploy, suitable for special forces and asymmetric warfare

Switchblade 600 – Heavy Attack Power

• Operating Time: Up to 40 minutes
• Effective Range: Over 40 km
• Warhead: Equivalent to a Javelin anti-tank missile, offering extremely powerful armor penetration
• Applications: Specializes in destroying tanks, armored vehicles, and large-scale fixed targets

From Laboratory to Battlefield

The Switchblade 300 has long been trusted by U.S. special forces due to its maneuverability and high precision. Meanwhile, the 600 version is accelerating production and distribution under the Replicator initiative – the Pentagon’s rapid development program for strategic autonomous systems.

Both UAV lines can be deployed from a single launch tube or a multi-round launcher system mounted on vehicles, providing flexibility in various combat scenarios. Real-world data from the Ukrainian battlefield shows that Switchblade UAVs have been used to destroy air defense systems and heavy vehicles, affirming their combat effectiveness in harsh environments.

At AIPT, we research and develop multi-mission UAV platforms for military, security, and civilian applications. The U.S. prioritization of loitering munitions within infantry units is a clear sign that the future of warfare will be led by unmanned technology, where each device is not just a tool, but also a reliable “digital warrior.”