AeroVironment has launched two new Puma product line enhancement options that improve and expand the operational capabilities of its family of tactical UAS.

AeroVironment worked with front-line users to develop the product enhancement options, which the company says “enable customers to proceed with certainty in ever-changing operational environments.”

“AeroVironment is committed to anticipating and delivering innovative solutions that are critical to tactical UAS operators downrange,” says Rick Pedigo, vice president of sales and business development for AeroVironment.

“These two new enhancement options will expand our customers’ operational capabilities, while maximizing operator safety and improving operational efficiency, allowing them to focus on the mission at hand.”

The first product enhancement option is the optional Puma Smart 2500 Battery, which is available for AeroVironment’s Puma LE UAS. The battery allows operators to achieve an extended flight time of up to 6.5 hours. With the increased endurance, operators are provided with greater time on station, which maximizes Puma LE’s multi-mission capabilities across land and maritime environments.

Featuring an improved capacity of 24.5Ah (amp-hours), the high-energy-density, lithium-ion battery pack still manages to retain the size and form factor needed to be seamlessly integrated into Puma LE’s existing battery bay.

The second enhancement option is AeroVironment’s Puma Bungee Launch System (BLS), which is now available as an enhancement option for Puma 2 AE and Puma 3 AE. A military-grade bungee launcher that is standard equipment with every Puma LE system, the BLS allows for Puma AE UAS to be launched with assistance in environmental conditions where hand launch is not practical or is limited.

The BLS is designed with mission-flexibility in mind, and can be securely installed in a variety of soil types or mounted to low, immovable objects. Lightweight and portable, the all-environment system can be set up and operational in less than 10 minutes.