Italy Signs $46.6 Million Drone Agreement with AeroVironment
Italy has finalized a substantial deal with AeroVironment, valued at $46.6 million, for the acquisition of Jump 20 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This modern fleet is intended to replace the country’s aging AAI RQ-7 Shadow drones, bolstering its aerial capabilities. The agreement spans five years and encompasses not only the delivery of the drones but also essential engineering and technical support, ensuring that the UAVs are fully operational from the outset.
This initiative aligns seamlessly with the technical and operational requirements set forth by the Italian Ministry of Defense, which emphasizes the necessity for cutting-edge, adaptable drones capable of executing dynamic and mobile missions. Shane Hastings, AeroVironment’s Vice President and General Manager for medium unmanned aerial systems, noted the significance of this contract in reinforcing the company’s history of supporting NATO allies with high-quality uncrewed systems.
