The United States Army has begun testing to equip M1A2 Abrams tanks with Switchblade loitering munitions, integrated through the new PERCH system, developed by General Dynamics Land Systems and AeroVironment.
The technology, presented at the MARS event in Fort Hood, allows the armored vehicle to launch both the Switchblade 300 and 600 from a module installed on the turret, extending the vehicle’s reconnaissance and attack range without exposing the crew.
During the demonstrations, PERCH showed the capability to conduct long-range reconnaissance and beyond-the-horizon strikes, including autonomous missions against pre-programmed targets. By adding drones to the Abrams, the system offers the tank an option for precision indirect fire and its own surveillance tool, reducing the need for support from other units. The Switchblade munitions, already widely used in the war in Ukraine, stand out for their flexibility, being capable of striking light vehicles, structures, and even armored targets.
With positive results, GDLS is negotiating with the Army a contract for testing an improved version of PERCH in 2026, which will include enhancements to the reloading process.
If the next trials are successful, more Abrams tanks may receive the system, reinforcing the trend that loitering munitions will become standard on armored vehicles in future battlefields.
Source: The War Zone | Photo: X @GD_LandSystems | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
NEWS 📢: General Dynamics Land Systems and @aerovironment successfully demonstrate PERCH loitering munitions launcher
Full release: https://t.co/Ci0WhXcOdd#ThePowerToWin pic.twitter.com/kGdWEqi5ld
— General Dynamics Land Systems (@GD_LandSystems) December 5, 2025
