The AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma is a small, hand-launched unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed for tactical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Developed by AeroVironment, this drone has become a vital tool for military and civilian operations worldwide.
Development History
The RQ-20 Puma was first developed in 2007 and officially introduced in 2008. It was initially selected by the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) for its All Environment Capable Variant (AECV) program. Over the years, the Puma has undergone several upgrades to enhance its performance and capabilities.
Design and Features
Compact and Portable
The Puma is designed for ease of use and portability. It can be assembled and launched by two personnel without the need for additional equipment. The drone is hand-launched and can be recovered using a deep-stall landing technique or a precision recovery system.
Durable Construction
Built to withstand harsh environments, the Puma features a lightweight airframe with a reinforced shell fuselage. Its design allows it to operate in extreme weather conditions, including temperatures ranging from -29°C to 49°C.
Modular Payload
The drone carries a lightweight, mechanically and digitally stabilized gimbaled payload. This includes an electro-optical (EO) camera, an infrared (IR) camera, and an IR illuminator. The modular design allows for the integration of alternative payloads to meet specific mission requirements.
Technical Specifications
- Length: 1.4 meters
- Wingspan: 2.8 meters
- Weight: Approximately 5.9 kg
- Engine Power: 1 horsepower
- Maximum Speed: 83 km/h
- Cruising Speed: 37 km/h
- Operating Range: Up to 60 km (with Long-Range Tracking Antenna)
- Flight Time: Up to 5.5 hours (Puma LE variant)
Variants
RQ-20A Puma AE
The RQ-20A is the military designation for the Puma All Environment variant. It features enhancements such as a more powerful propulsion system, new batteries, and improved aerodynamics.
RQ-20B Puma AE
The RQ-20B is an upgraded version of the Puma AE. It includes a lighter and stronger airframe, a long-endurance battery, a precision inertial navigation system, and an improved user interface.
Solar Puma
This variant is equipped with ultra-thin solar cells, extending its endurance to 9 hours.
Puma LE (Long Endurance)
The Puma LE features an expanded battery-operated endurance of up to 5.5 hours.
Puma 3 AE
Designed for maritime use, the Puma 3 AE is capable of landing on water or ground. It includes the Mantis i45 EO/IR sensor suite and extended range capabilities.
Operational Use
The RQ-20 Puma has been widely adopted by various military and civilian organizations around the world. Its versatility and reliability make it suitable for a range of missions, including:
- Tactical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR)
- Maritime patrol
- Search and rescue (SAR)
- Counter-illicit trafficking
- Environmental monitoring
Global Operators
The Puma is used by numerous countries, including:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- Belgium
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Egypt
- Estonia
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Latvia
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Portugal
- Sweden
- Turkey
- Ukraine
Conclusion
The AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma is a versatile and reliable UAV that has proven its value in various operational scenarios. Its compact design, durable construction, and modular payload capabilities make it an essential tool for modern military and civilian applications.
For more detailed information, you can visit the AeroVironment official website or consult reputable defense technology publications.
