AeroVironment unveiled the Mayhem 10 unmanned aerial vehicle platform.
American company AeroVironment unveiled the Mayhem 10 multi-role unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Designed to be launched from a variety of launch vehicles, the vehicle supports a wide range of interchangeable payload modules. Depending on its configuration, it can conduct reconnaissance, suppress enemy systems, or attack ground targets.
Premiere in Moscow
At the conference of the Army Association aviation The company demonstrated the Mayhem 10 for the first time at the Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA) in Nashville, where a mock-up of the product was presented, its main characteristics were revealed, and production plans were revealed.
The project was based on AeroVironment's developments in unmanned systems, combat experience with the Switchblade series, and consultations with potential customers. Based on this work, it was decided to develop not a highly specialized UAV, but a universal aerial platform with interchangeable nose modules. The installed module determines the aircraft's tactical role—the choice is up to the customer.
UAVs at the Army Aviation Association conference
At the test stage
The drone has completed the main development stage and has begun flight testing. Over 50 flights with various profiles and payloads have been conducted, and the aircraft has confirmed its design characteristics. Testing is scheduled to be completed within a few months.
At the same time, the company is preparing its production base. The first batches will be produced at a plant in Simi Valley, California, and another facility is being built in Salt Lake City, Utah. AeroVironment plans to begin small-scale production in the second half of 2026; with orders, both plants will be able to produce up to 1–2 units per year. The cost of these production units has not yet been disclosed.
The Pentagon is the first potential customer. The company has submitted a bid to participate in the Launch Effects-Short Range (LE-SR) program, where Mayhem 10 will compete with other developments in its class.
Unmanned platform
The Mayhem 10 is a remotely controlled UAV with a modular payload. The manufacturer claims high flight performance and the ability to perform a wide range of missions depending on the installed nose unit.
UAVs and replaceable head sections: electronic, optical-electronic and combat
The device has an elongated fuselage: the nose section is formed by the body of a replaceable module with a fairing or other equipment, the main section is equipped with two folding wings and a pair of vertical planes.
The exact dimensions are not disclosed; according to published sources, the length and wingspan are estimated at 1–1,2 m. Mass characteristics:
- net weight - 13 kg;
- maximum take-off weight - 19 kg;
- payload - up to 4,5 kg.
The tail electric motor provides a cruising speed of up to 130 km/h and a maximum speed of up to 190 km/h. The flight range is 100 km, and the endurance is 50 minutes.
Launch occurs from a tubular launch container with a propellant booster—a departure from the pneumatic system used on previous AeroVironment vehicles. After exiting the container, the drone deploys its wings and enters independent flight.
Control is via a tablet-based remote control. The AV Halo Command system supports autonomous and group operation modes, including the combined operation of multiple devices in a swarm.
Tomahawk Grip TA5 UAV Control Computer
The system can be used in both portable and transportable versions: transport and launch containers are installed on vehicles, ground-based robotic systems, helicopters, and surface vessels.
Payloads
In late 2024, AeroVironment engaged partners to develop modules for Mayhem 10, providing them with the necessary technical documentation. The first prototypes are already ready; more will be added to the lineup soon.
All modules are designed as a removable nose section of the fuselage. Module replacement and software reconfiguration take minimal time and are performed by the regular crew.
The optoelectronic module is a spherical head with a video camera, thermal imager, and laser rangefinder. It is designed for reconnaissance and target designation.
The multipurpose module combines an optronic system and a warhead. With this equipment, the Mayhem 10 becomes a loitering munition: the vehicle is capable of independently detecting a target and delivering a direct hit.
Option for placing the Mayhem 10 UAV on a ground-based RTK
The range of electronic modules includes electronic reconnaissance equipment, electronic warfare stations, and corner reflectors for simulating aerial targets—all housed in a hull with a radio-transparent fairing.
Opportunities
The Mayhem 10 combines high flight performance, modularity, and support for group operations. The aircraft are capable of forming swarms and distributing tactical roles among themselves—one of the platform's key advantages, along with ease of maintenance and a quickly replaceable payload.
The company is optimistic about its chances in the LE-SR program and similar competitions. However, the market is saturated with similar systems, and the outcome of the competition remains uncertain.
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