AeroVironment launches Pocket DDL AE rugged, all-environment video and data receiver

QUANTICO, Va. AeroVironment also is unveiling its Pocket DDL AE, a rugged, all-environment, next-generation, secure digital video and data receiver that integrates the new M1/M2/M5 radio-frequency spectrum. The Pocket DDL AE’s all-environment design makes it significantly more rugged than its predecessor by offering a waterproof package, immersible to three feet, that supports tactical operations in a wide range of environmental conditions and difficult urban terrain, officials say.

The Pocket DDL AE facilitates rapid and secure access to a small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) Digital Data Link (DDL) network. Each unit has no exterior buttons or displays and is completely controlled through an app.

Pocket DDL AE has a standard Glenair Mighty-Mouse connector, making it compatible with the Army‘s Net Warrior system, so dedicated cables for Pocket DDL are not necessary. It can operate from any power supply, providing between 5 and 32 volts DC.

Pocket DDL AE implements an open-systems architecture, using a USB interface and XML messaging for control of the radio functions. This enables apps designed for special purposes -- such as tactical operations, search and rescue, asset tracking, long- range communications, mission command, and targeting -- to use Pocket DDL AE to employ small UAS to help perform tasks more effectively.

“Combined with the M1/M2/M5 upgrade to our Pocket DDL AE, this provides greatly enhanced capability across our entire family of small UAS product line for improved tactical operations,” says David Sharpin, vice president of AeroVironment’s Tactical UAS Business Unit. “This example demonstrates our ongoing commitment to upgrade our Family of Systems products and provide new capabilities to our existing and new customers around the world.”

RQ-11B Raven®, RQ-12 Wasp®, RQ-20A Puma™, RQ-20B Puma, and Snipe Nano UAS comprise AeroVironment’s family of small unmanned aircraft systems. Operating with a common ground control system (GCS), this family of systems provides increased capability to the warfighter that can give ground commanders the option of selecting the appropriate aircraft based on the type of mission to be performed. This increased capability has the potential to provide significant force protection and force multiplication benefits to small tactical units and security personnel.

AeroVironment provides logistics services worldwide to ensure a consistently high level of operational readiness and provides mission services for customers requiring only the information its small UAS produce. AeroVironment has delivered thousands of new and replacement small unmanned air vehicles to customers within the United States and to more than 40 international governments.

AeroVironment (NASDAQ:AVAV) provides customers with more actionable intelligence so they can proceed with certainty. Based in California, AeroVironment is a global provider of unmanned aircraft systems, tactical missile systems, and electric vehicle charging and test systems, and serves militaries, government agencies, businesses, and consumers.

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