U.S. Gifts JUMP 20 Drones to Taiwan

The United States has transferred AeroVironment-produced JUMP 20 fixed-wing, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drones to Taiwan.

On Monday, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Legislator Chuang Jui-hsiung and Kuomintang (KMT) Legislator Johnny Chiang confirmed the information, per CNA. The two legislators said the drone could be a valuable tool for maritime security, crime detection, and help bolster regional security.

During a DPP press conference, Chuang said that the JUMP 20 drone was provided for free.

The JUMP 20 drone is designed for multi-sensor intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. It has a flight endurance of over 14 hours, a maximum flight speed of 92 km/h, and an operational range of 185 km.

Runway independent, the system can be set up and operational in less than 60 minutes without the need for launch or recovery equipment. With a useable payload capacity of up to 30 pounds, the JUMP 20 offers payload options utilizing imaging sensors such as ARCAM 45D, long range EO/MWIR as well as onboard tracking, stabilization and video processing. JUMP 20 features a common autopilot and ground control system architecture providing a customizable, modular platform which can be custom-configured to meet operational or customer requirements.

Chiang said that while Taiwan has ordered MQ-9 SeaGuardian drones, the JUMP 20 fulfills different functions than larger UAVs.