AeroVironment (AV) has unveiled a major software upgrade suite, called Project GOLD, that significantly enhances the battlefield performance of its Puma™ 3 AE and Puma™ LE uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), even in high-threat environments. These updates empower the Puma UAS to continue navigation and mission-critical tasks autonomously, even when GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) and communication signals are compromised, unavailable, or actively jammed. These software-only upgrades reduce GPS dependency and increase survivability, making them essential for secure operations in hostile areas. Key enhancements include:
GPS-Denied Capabilities: The Puma 3 AE and Puma LE now feature advanced Assured Position, Navigation, and Timing (APNT) capabilities to operate effectively in GNSS-denied settings.
Visual Navigation System (VNS): The VNS system enables reliable end-to-end operations without GNSS and includes added protection against GNSS spoofing attempts.
Enhanced Radio Security: The latest software offers strengthened communication security, optimized with user interface and user experience (UI/UX) improvements for contested environments.
Increased Payload Capacity: The update also boosts Puma 3’s payload capacity by 60%, allowing up to 6.5 pounds of equipment, expanding its multi-mission capability.
“With these software upgrades, we’re strengthening the adaptability and resilience of our Puma systems to meet the toughest battlefield challenges,” said Trace Stevenson, AV’s senior vice president and general manager of Uncrewed Systems. “These enhancements ensure that warfighters maintain operational superiority even when critical systems face disruption, leading to greater mission success and survivability.”
The software updates require no hardware modifications, enabling rapid, cost-effective upgrades to existing Puma systems. All new Puma units will include these capabilities, and fielded units can be upgraded easily with the Puma Software Update Kit.