US Army Awards AeroVironment $18.4m RQ-11B Raven UAS Contract

The Raven is the most widely used unmanned aircraft system in the world today. Developed for the US Armed Forces, the UAV performs intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) operations. It is also known as a man-portable UAV. AeroVironment was recently awarded a firm-fixed-price contract from the United States Army totaling $18,485,495 to supply initial RQ-11B Raven unmanned aircraft systems, spare parts and contractor logistics services to seven allied nations through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. The Raven is for low-altitude intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance information. It has a wingspan of 4.5 feet, weighs 4.2 pounds, and a day/night operational range of about 6.2 miles.

"Allied forces around the globe are increasingly relying on AeroVironment as the go-to source for small UAS that deliver powerful insight, on demand for valuable, real-time situational awareness – whenever and wherever needed,"

said Kirk Flittie, AeroVironment vice president and general manager of its Unmanned Aircraft Systems business segment.

"Our systems help military personnel and enterprises operate more safely and effectively in some of the most challenging conditions and places on earth."

The Raven is used by the US Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, and the Special Operations Command, as well as the Royal Danish Army, and the Netherlands military. Operated manually or programmed for autonomous operation, the drone comes with an optional stabilized gimbaled payload, and delivers real-time color or infrared imagery to ground control and remote viewing stations. The Raven UAS has proven itself in combat supporting U.S. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and other areas of conflict. The Raven is now used by all of the military services. The Air Force purchased the Raven UAS to replace the Desert Hawk UAS and Pointer UAS. The UAV can fly at a maximum altitude of 500ft (152m). The maximum cruising speed of the aircraft varies between 32km/h and 81km/h. The range and service ceiling of the aircraft are 12km and 4,500m respectively. Its maximum endurance is 90min. The RQ-11B Raven is powered by a single Aveox 27/26/7-AV electric motor. The engine is manufactured by US-based Aveox.

Here at ASAP NSN Parts, we have the resources to distribute a vast array of AeroVironment products. We provide our customers with a simplified and speedy procurement process. We ensure that our customers’ production lines and aircraft are always up and running effectively. We offer cost-effective component solutions by improving our customers’ negotiation power. If you are interested in a quote, please contact our friendly sales staff at sales@asap-nsnparts.us or call us at 1-714-705-4780.

1. john parker
2. Posted on October 22, 2015
aviation news

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