AeroVironment (AV) recently showcased the impressive maritime capabilities of its combat-proven JUMP® 20 uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) during NATO’s REPMUS 2024 exercise, held off the coast of Portugal. This event, designed for Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping using Maritime Uncrewed Systems, allowed AV to highlight the JUMP 20’s advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) features. The UAS successfully launched and landed autonomously on a moving vessel in challenging sea conditions, with waves reaching sea state level 5 and winds exceeding 20 knots.
The JUMP 20 demonstrated its versatility by executing wide-area search and detection missions using its multi-sensor capabilities. The UAS’s advanced Electro Optical and Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) turret automatically adjusted to investigate targets, maintaining focus without requiring repositioning. Full-motion video footage was captured and analyzed using AV’s SPOTR-Edge™ computer vision technology, which utilizes a comprehensive library for object classification, including persons, vehicles, and maritime vessels. This data will also contribute to enhancing the system’s object recognition and situational response for future missions.
REPMUS is an annual exercise that brings together NATO allies, the European Union, industry experts, and academic partners to test and advance maritime uncrewed systems in realistic conditions.
“We were honored to participate in this year’s REPMUS exercise, where we demonstrated the JUMP 20’s maritime capabilities,” said Shane Hastings, AV’s vice president and general manager of Medium UAS. “The JUMP 20’s autonomous precision landing in difficult sea states—without the need for additional launch or recovery equipment—highlights the system’s flexibility. By enabling hands-free operations, we enhance both safety and operational efficiency.”
AV’s success at REPMUS 2024 underscores its commitment to advancing UAS technology for naval applications. The JUMP 20’s proven ability to conduct complex shipboard operations with minimal human input sets a new benchmark for maritime UAS capabilities, contributing to operational superiority at sea.
AeroVironment (NASDAQ: AVAV) is a global leader in intelligent multi-domain robotic systems, uncrewed aircraft and ground systems, sensors, software analytics and connectivity. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, AeroVironment delivers actionable intelligence so our customers can proceed with certainty.