AeroVironment (AV) has partnered with Arkeus to equip the JUMP 20 drone with the Hyperspectral Optical Radar (HSOR) payload. The integration enhances autonomous reconnaissance in complex or low-visibility settings while extending long-range surveillance. HSOR’s AI-driven data engine can track hundreds of targets across land, sea, and coastal zones without recalibration. Offering over eight times the range of standard optical sensors, it uses hyperspectral imaging to capture environmental data such as water depth and vegetation density. Applications include border security, maritime patrol, search and rescue, and counter-narcotics. The JUMP 20 provides 13-hour endurance, 100-nautical-mile line-of-sight range, and up to 500-nautical-mile satellite control. With 30-pound payload capacity and rapid 30-minute setup, the platform remains versatile. Italy recently purchased the system for $46.6 million, while AV unveiled the navalized JUMP 20-X variant earlier this year.
