Italy is significantly upgrading its military surveillance capabilities through a newly finalized contract with U.S. aerospace firm AeroVironment. The Italian Ministry of Defence (MOD) announced the agreement on April 21, 2025. The deal covers the procurement of the advanced JUMP® 20 vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) medium uncrewed aircraft system (MUAS). This move represents a major modernization step for Italy’s Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets.
The five-year contract, valued at $46.6 million, includes the JUMP 20 air vehicles, engineering services, initial sustainment, and on-site technical support to ensure rapid integration and operational readiness for the Italian Armed Forces. The selection followed a competitive evaluation, and the JUMP 20 met the MOD’s demanding technical and operational criteria.
Advanced Capabilities of the JUMP 20
The AeroVironment JUMP 20 is a sophisticated fixed-wing MUAS enhanced with VTOL capability. Its hybrid design allows it to operate without runways or specialized launch equipment, making it highly suitable for expeditionary missions and deployment from diverse locations. Its key performance features include a payload capacity of 30 pounds, which enables the use of various advanced sensors, an endurance exceeding 13 hours for persistent surveillance, and an operational range of 185 km (115 miles).
Flexibility Through Modular Design
A key feature influencing the JUMP 20’s selection is its design based on a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA). This architecture ensures the platform is adaptable and future-proof, allowing for easier integration of new technologies, sensors, and software upgrades over its lifespan. This prevents technological lock-in and provides the Italian military with a scalable ISR solution that can evolve alongside changing tactical requirements. The ability to accommodate multi-payload configurations further increases its versatility across different mission profiles, from reconnaissance to target acquisition.
Strategic Modernization and Enhanced Protection
This acquisition marks a crucial step in Italy’s military modernization efforts, as the JUMP 20 systems are slated to replace the nation’s aging fleet of RQ-7 Shadow UAS. The JUMP 20 offers substantial improvements, most notably its VTOL capability, eliminating the runway dependency of the legacy system. This transition underscores Italy’s commitment to adopting next-generation technologies that improve mission effectiveness, operational efficiency, and, critically, force protection. The enhanced situational awareness provided by the JUMP 20 contributes directly to better tactical planning and reduced risk for personnel.
Strengthening Partnerships: AeroVironment and NATO
The contract reinforces AeroVironment’s role as a key supplier of advanced uncrewed systems to NATO allies. Shane Hastings, Vice President and General Manager of Medium UAS at AeroVironment, commented on the agreement: “We are honored to strengthen our partnership with the Italian Ministry of Defence through the delivery of the JUMP 20. This contract builds on our history of supporting NATO allies with world-class uncrewed systems, reflecting our unwavering commitment to innovation and mission success.” This deal enhances Italy’s capabilities and promotes greater interoperability among NATO forces utilizing advanced autonomous systems.
Future Outlook
Italy’s investment in the JUMP 20 aligns with a global defense trend towards leveraging intelligent, autonomous systems for modern security challenges. These platforms offer persistence, operational flexibility, and reduced human risk. By integrating the JUMP 20, Italy not only modernizes its ISR fleet but also positions its armed forces to effectively utilize cutting-edge technology, contributing to national defense and international security cooperation.
