USA introduced the upgraded Switchblade 300
29 March, 2023 Switchblade 300 kamikaze drones. Image from open sources AeroVironment presented the newest version of Switchblade 300 Block 20.
The Switchblade 300 Block 20 builds on Block 10C's battle-proven performance with new operational features. The company announced this in its statement. Switchblade 300 Block 20 is portable, lightweight, and easy to operate, requiring only a single operator.
The launch of the Switchblade 300 kamikaze drone
The new tablet-based Fire Control System allows operators to easily train, plan, and execute missions.
Operation of the system is further simplified by offering an integrated control directly onto the launcher tube. The upgraded kamikaze drone weighs less than 2.2 kg and can be deployed in under two minutes via tube-launch from land, sea, or mobile platforms. Like its predecessor, Switchblade 300 Block 20 maintains its patented wave-off capability, enabling the operator to recommit against moving targets in highly dynamic environments.
The Ukrainian soldier of the assault unit "Shalena Zgraya" launches a "Switchblade 300" kamikaze drone.
May 2022. Frame from the video from "Che Ua"
Delivering 20-plus minutes of tactical reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition, the Switchblade 300 Block 20 provides real-time video for use against beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) targets. The Switchblade 300 Block 20 features an improved Digital Data Link (DDL) range, a new EO/IR panning camera suite, and a left-hand commit with continuous positive identification (PID).
Cursor-on-Target GPS coordinates provide situational awareness, information collection, targeting, and feature/object recognition. In October 2022, the AM General company presented a Humvee concept equipped with a launcher for Switchblade loitering munition.
Humvee Saber Blade with Switchblade loitering munition launcher at AUSA2022. October 2022, USA. Photo credits: Arquus
The new Humvee version is capable of carrying 10 Switchblade 600 loitering munition and 14 smaller Switchblade 300 in the rear of the vehicle.
Switchblade 300 is a product of the American company AeroVironment. It is folded inside a special launch container, and its wings unfold after launch. The Switchblade 300 is useful for hitting long-range targets and firing support for units under heavy enemy fire.
The warhead has an explosive charge equivalent to a 40-mm grenade to destroy light armored vehicles and personnel.
The Ukrainian military uses Switchblade 300 loitering munition to destroy enemy positions.
As of February 20, 2023, the United States has transferred over 700 Switchblade kamikaze drones to Ukraine.