AeroVironment has secured a $43-million deal to provide phased array receiver technology for the US Department of Defense’s SkyRange program, a major effort focused on enhancing hypersonic missile testing capabilities. Led by Northrop Grumman, the SkyRange initiative is transforming aging RQ-4 Global Hawk surveillance drones into “Range Hawks” capable of supporting sophisticated hypersonic flight trials.
Under the agreement, AeroVironment will deliver its advanced Phased Array Next-gen Telemetry Hypersonic Emitter Receiver (PANTHER) system, an all-digital antenna platform designed to collect and process telemetry data during missile evaluations. The integration of the PANTHER solution is expected to improve the drones’ ability to simultaneously monitor multiple fast-moving targets, enhancing analysis of hypersonic systems traveling at speeds above Mach 5.
The PANTHER antenna panel features scalable architecture with multichannel communication support for testing and operational applications. As a software-defined system, it enables remote-controlled and autonomous signal acquisition without the need for mechanical tracking components. Beyond standard frequency bands, the platform can also be configured for additional spectrum requirements and integrated onto both aerial and ground-based systems.
According to AeroVironment, the contract highlights the company’s growing expertise in advanced defense testing technologies aimed at lowering technical risk and accelerating system development. The company continues its SkyRange integration work at the GrandSKY aerospace park in North Dakota and is partnering with local organizations, including Bismarck State College, to develop workforce training programs for future PANTHER operators and maintenance specialists.
