Loitering munitions are a type of UAV designed to loiter around an AO until a target is spotted and designated, allowing faster response than systems that must launch and transit after target acquisition.

They are distinct from other UAS in several ways. Conventional UAVs such as the MQ-9 Reaper are aircraft that deploy munitions, whereas loitering munitions are themselves the weapon. Unlike FPV kamikaze drones which are piloted directly, loitering munitions are generally more independent and guide themselves onto a designated target. They are also not recoverable once launched, making them a single-use strike asset.

Loitering munitions are most useful as a rapid response capability against HVTs or targets of opportunity, where speed and precision are more important than persistence or recovery.

Guide

FM/BG-1679 - Using switchblade

Guide

The Switchblade is a loitering munition used by many NATO and allied forces and available in two variants. It is a disposable UAV designed to loiter over an area and strike designated targets with precision.

Switchblade 300 is small and lightweight, allowing multiple units to be carried by a single operator. It has short range and endurance with VIS, NV, and TI imaging and a payload comparable to a 40 mm HEDP grenade, making it suitable for infantry and light vehicles. It can detonate on impact or airburst.
Switchblade 600 is a larger variant with longer range and endurance and a payload comparable to a Javelin ATGM, making it suitable for armoured vehicles and heavier targets.

Switchblade munitions are launched from a disposable tube at an elevated angle and typically deployed from covered or rear positions. After launch, the munition loiters over the area and is controlled through a UAV terminal.

Target designation can be performed using automated waypoints or manual targeting. Automated targeting is generally discouraged due to unpredictability and policy restrictions, while manual designation using the turret camera and target lock provides better control and visual confirmation. Once a target is locked, the munition conducts a top down attack and can be cancelled or self destructed if required.

Known issue: Direct targeting through GMs remote control may not function correctly; a UAV terminal should be used for manual designation.

Skill

FM/BS-1680 - Deploy a loitering munition

Skill

Place launcher tube in a suitable and safe position
Deploy the munition from the launcher
Take control of the munition using the UAV terminal

Skill

FM/BS-1681 - Engage a target with loitering munitions

Skill

Select appropriate loitering munition variant for the target and use case
Use turret camera to observe and track the target
Point turret at target and press vehicle target lock
Select airburst mode when engaging infantry or exposed targets if required

Skill

FM/BS-1682 - Cancel a loitering munition attack run

Skill

Identify a change in situation
Cancel the attack run