The US is considering providing the Navy with Jump 20 uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) to enhance its mid- to long-range reconnaissance capabilities and aid in the development of a next-generation reconnaissance drone, according to a source familiar with the situation.
In 2022, the US had previously supplied drones of the same type to the Coast Guard Administration. However, the Jump 20 drones intended for the Navy would have upgraded specifications, the source noted.
The drones would be offered through the US foreign military financing program, the source added.
The Jump 20 is one of the first drones developed under the US Future Tactical Uncrewed Aircraft System Program. Aside from the US military, the drone has been provided to Ukraine and Taiwan, the source confirmed.
In addition to the drones, the US has allegedly provided Taiwan with military assistance under the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. This includes 80,000 sets of personal equipment and 1,000 M240B machine guns, according to the source. The Ministry of National Defense has not confirmed or denied these reports.
The source did not specify any additional equipment that may be included in the package besides the Jump 20 drones.
The Jump 20, developed by AeroVironment Inc. based in Arlington, Virginia, is a fixed-wing drone with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities. Former air force deputy commander Chang Yen-ting stated in 2023 that the drone is capable of providing multisensor intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. It can remain airborne for over 14 hours per mission and has a top speed of 93 km/h. Its low visual and acoustic signature makes it suitable for multiple mission types.
Chieh Chung, an associate research fellow at the National Policy Foundation in Taipei, also noted in 2023 that the Jump 20 could enhance Taiwan’s ability to monitor its surrounding waters, which would aid in countering “gray zone” threats from China.
