Dominique Stump
AeroVironment has released a new launch system that will work to allow remote deployments of the company’s Switchblade Lethal Miniature Aerial Missile System and Blackwing tube-launched unmanned aircraft system.
The company said Tuesday the Multi-Pack Launcher supports integration at forward operating bases and tactical ground vehicles to help provide incoming fire and force protection and on-the-go intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance functions.
MPL weighs 160 pounds, can support between two and 20 Switchblade and Blackwing rounds with an estimated reload time of less than 30 seconds per round and could be powered via shore and tactical vehicles in addition to its built-in solar panels and battery pack.
Kirk Flittie, AeroVironment vice president and general manager of its UASÂ business unit, said the features of MPL are designed to provide warfighters in frontline operating environments fixed and mobile force protection.
