AeroVironment’s latest all-electric vertical takeoff and landing platform, the Vapor Compact Long Endurance (CLE), sets a new benchmark for Group 2 unmanned aircraft systems. This VTOL drone’s open modular architecture enables it to carry more than 26 types of payloads, spanning from high-resolution optical sensors to electronic attack and communications equipment. Tailored for both military and civilian applications, the Vapor CLE boasts a lightweight design around 35 pounds and delivers up to two hours of continuous flight—twice that of earlier models. It also supports a range of munition payloads such as mortar rounds and guided grenades, enabling flexible offensive options during missions. With state-of-the-art autonomous flight control powered by NVIDIA ORIN processors and AV’s AI-driven software, the system excels in automated target detection and tracking across distances of over 10 kilometers. This compact, ruggedized UAS responds directly to battlefield requirements for enhanced persistence, lethality, and adaptability.
