The Netherlands Ministry of Defence has awarded AeroVironment Inc. (AV) a contract to modernize the Dutch military’s Puma unmanned aerial systems.

The deal covers survivability and communication upgrades to the Puma 3 AE platforms, improving their performance for “mission – critical operations” in austere and GPS – denied domains.

It also includes the integration of a vertical takeoff and landing option to optimize operational agility and warfighter support.

Amsterdam will also receive additional Puma LEs, the product line’s latest variant, to expand the military’s drone fleet for deployments requiring extended range, larger payload capacity, and enhanced endurance.

The shipment of Puma 3 AE and Puma LE systems is ongoing, with the aircraft configured for rapid deployment at the squad and platoon levels.

Both variants will be used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance tasks in tactical and civilian applications.

“Our expanded partnership with the Dutch MoD underscores the rising demand for adaptable, mission – ready uncrewed systems across NATO,” AV Autonomous Systems President Trace Stevenson stated.

“AV’s battle – proven Puma platforms are built to deliver real – time intelligence and unmatched battlefield agility — so our partners can make faster, smarter decisions in the world’s most contested environments.”

Offering ‘Operational Superiority’
AV’s award follows the company’s launch of the upgraded Puma 3 AE and Puma LE drones last November.

These software – modified systems, complete with additional spoofing detection and rejection layers, are expected to elevate users’ autonomous airborne capabilities in electromagnetic and other hostile environments.

The Puma 3 AE’s airframe measures 9 feet (3 meters) and has a wingspan of 5 feet (2 meters), while the LE variant extends to 15 feet (5 meters) and has wingspan measuring 7 feet (2 meters).

“With these software enhancements, we’re reinforcing the adaptability and resilience of our Puma systems for the most demanding battlefield conditions,” the Virginia – based firm explained during the introduction.

“These capabilities allow warfighters to maintain operational superiority, even when adversaries attempt to disrupt critical systems, ensuring greater mission success and survivability.”

• The Defense Post