As adversaries field increasingly smart and innovative weapons on the battlefield, AeroVironment (AV) is aiming to keep pace through MAYHEM 10, a new multi-role launched effects system designed to counter evolving threats.
Built on the company’s Switchblade loitering munition line, MAYHEM 10 can carry up to 10 pounds (4,5 kilograms) of lethal or non-lethal payloads without requiring changes to launch methods.
It boasts a range of more than 100 kilometers (62 miles) and can be deployed individually or in swarms to expand coverage, complicate enemy defenses, or support multiple missions simultaneously.
The system can remain airborne for up to 50 minutes and can be assembled and readied for launch in under five minutes, enabling rapid deployment and sustained operations.
By leveraging a Modular Open Systems Approach, it supports seamless payload integration and autonomy upgrades, allowing it to adapt to evolving operational requirements and technologies..
“MAYHEM 10 changes how forces generate combat power by enabling collaborative swarm operations at scale,” said Brian Young, senior vice president of loitering munitions at AV.
“Operators can employ multiple systems to work collaboratively, expanding coverage, overwhelming defenses, and executing synchronized effects across the battlespace, without increasing platform risk or force concentration.”
Multi-Role by Design
MAYHEM 10 supports multiple mission sets, from intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance to electronic warfare, deception and decoy operations, and communications relay.
Its self-contained launcher is designed for deployment across dismounted operations, ground-based platforms, and air systems.
Powered by an AI processor, the loitering munition also incorporates advanced autonomy features for operations in contested environments, including under jamming, spoofing, and GPS-denied conditions.
“MAYHEM 10 sets a new standard for operational versatility and survivability on the modern battlefield,” said Wahid Nawabi, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of AV.
“This breakthrough allows commanders to extend their reach, accelerate decision-making, and maintain superiority without putting crews or high-value assets at unnecessary risk.”
The system made its debut at the 2026 Army Aviation Association of America event.
