Navy potentially receiving drones from the U.S.: insider info
Rewritten Article:
Get ready for some high-tech action! The US is contemplating equipping their navy with Jump 20 uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). These bad boys are set to bolster the navy's mid to long-range reconnaissance abilities and contribute to the development of a new-gen recon drone, according to a well-informed source.
Interestingly, the US has already bestowed these drones upon the Coast Guard Administration, as per the same source. The navy's Jump 20s, while similar in design, will boast more advanced features. They're rolling out as part of the US foreign military financing program.
But that's not all! The Jump 20 is part of AeroVironment Inc.'s initial wave of drones developed under the US Future Tactical Uncrewed Aircraft System Program. So far, only Ukraine and Taiwan (outside the US military) have access to these high-flyers.
Apparently, the US has been dishing out a generous helping of "free military assistance" to Taiwan, courtesy of the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act - 80,000 sets of personal equipment and 1,000 M240B machine guns, to be precise. However, the Ministry of National Defense has chosen to maintain their usual mysterious demeanor on the matter.
The source was coy about any additional equipment being earmarked aside from the Jump 20 UAV.
So, what makes the Jump 20 such a game-changer? Let's break it down:
- Takeoff and Landing: This fixed-wing drone boasts a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability, making it super versatile – no need for runways or recovery equipment!
- Payload: It can handle payloads of up to 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms).
- Endurance and Range: With over 13 hours of flight endurance and an operational range of 115 miles (185 kilometers), the Jump 20's got staying power!
- Sensors and Cameras: Equipped with an ARCAM 45D imaging sensor and a long-range electro-optical/multi-spectral infrared (EO/MWIR) thermal camera system, these sensors boast onboard tracking, stabilization, and video processing capabilities.
Former deputy commander of the air force, Chang Yen-ting, shared in 2023 that the drone can provide multisensor intelligence and surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. With a top speed of 93kph and a stealthy low visual and acoustic signature, it's a prime choice for multimission operations.
Chieh Chung, an associate research fellow at the National Policy Foundation in Taipei, also spoke up in 2023. He believes the drone will indirectly improve Taiwan's ability to survey its surrounding waters – a crucial tool in countering China's "gray zone" threats.
And that's the lowdown on the Jump 20! Stay tuned for more exciting updates in the world of drone technology.
- Taiwan, having access to the Jump 20 UAVs, presented an opportunity for the country to significantly strengthen its aerospace industry and technology capabilities.
- The offer of these drones to Taiwan, under the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, also includes financing from the US government to support the industry and finance related activities.
- As the Jump 20 UAVs are equipped with advanced sensors and cameras, their deployment in Taiwan could potentially loosen China's control over its near-coastal waters, offering enhanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
- With expertise in UAV design and technology, Taiwan can strategicly leverage the Jump 20's technology to further develop its own indigenous drone industry, increasing its resilience and self-reliance in crucial defense technologies.
