The Danish Ministry of Defence has signed a 10-year agreement with Arcturus UAV Inc., an American company, for the procurement of JUMP 20 drones equipped with a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) system.
This acquisition is part of Denmark's broader strategy to enhance its military presence in the Arctic, a region of increasing strategic importance.
The first deliveries are set to begin in 2025.
As part of its commitment to strengthening Arctic defense, the Danish government has allocated $2 billion for military upgrades. This includes the construction of three new Arctic ships and the purchase of additional long-range drones.
The JUMP 20 drones will play a vital role in Denmark's efforts to enhance situational awareness and intelligence gathering in the Arctic and North Atlantic regions.
With an endurance of over 10 hours and a range exceeding 100 kilometers, the JUMP 20 is well-suited to Denmark's military needs, especially in challenging climatic conditions.
Lieutenant General Per Pugholm Olsen, Chairman of the Danish Ministry of Defence's Materiel and Procurement Agency (FMI), remarked, "We are confident that this agreement ensures the ability to acquire additional drones if necessary, and that the drones we receive will remain at the forefront of technological development."
Developed by AeroVironment, the JUMP 20 is a tactical reconnaissance drone capable of carrying a payload of up to 13.6 kilograms, with a maximum takeoff weight of 97.5 kilograms. Its VTOL capability makes it particularly useful in areas with limited space or lacking prepared runways. The drone has a maximum flight altitude of over 5,100 meters and can stay airborne for more than 14 hours, with a range of up to 185 kilometers.