AeroVironment releases Puma VNS for GPS-contested drone navigation
AeroVironment has launched a new visual-based navigation system to enable UAS operations in contested electromagnetic environments.
Puma VNS is designed to determine the precise location of a UAV in flight without relying on GPS. It features a suite of look-down sensors to gather imagery and track terrain features, plus an embedded computing module ‘to process and determine the precise location of an aircraft while it is in flight’, AeroVironment noted in a 15 September statement.
Puma VNS is available as an add-on optional feature for the Puma 2 AE and Puma 3 AE sUASs and as a retrofit kit for fielded systems.
AeroVironment added that it expects to implement hardware and software upgrades to Puma VNS that will provide operators with continually advanced navigation capabilities, features and functionality. The system will also enable the integration of future autonomy capabilities.
More from Digital Battlespace
-
NATO innovation programme doubles in size
DIANA has been leveraging its accelerator programme and test centre network to bring end users together with start-ups, scientific researchers and technology companies for the development of dual-use technological defence and security solutions.
-
DARPA awards AI contracts
The US has been working to out how to use and defend against AI with DARPA alone outlining in 2008 ‘AI Next’ programme with US$2 billion committed to advance the science of AI.
-
Finding your space
Digital mapping and geolocation have become critical to battlespace users, and ensuring the best content is delivered is vital.
-
Why the US would struggle to overcome Russia’s nuclear anti-satellite weapon
Russia's move to develop a nuclear anti-satellite weapon has highlighted US anxieties over space combat readiness, challenging the Pentagon's strategic defences in a potential cosmic battleground.
-
China’s AI developments in electronic surveillance extends to battlefield
‘Nowhere to hide’ as Chinese progress in AI-enabled surveillance technological has enabled it to identify and suppress enemy communications systems.
-
Boeing wins $440 million contract for 12th Wideband Global SATCOM satellite
Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) satellites have been supporting the US DoD’s warfighting information exchange requirements, enabling execution of tactical C4ISR, battlefield management and combat support information.