GA-ASI Flies MQ-9B With Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PT6 E-Series Engine

SAN DIEGO, CA, July 19, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) flew a company-owned MQ-9B SkyGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft on July 15, 2024, with a PT6 E-Series model turboprop engine supplied by Pratt & Whitney Canada. Representatives from GA-ASI and Pratt & Whitney witnessed the first flight of the PT6 engine on MQ-9B, which lasted 44 minutes and demonstrated exemplary handling and acceleration.

“We’re excited to see the PT6 engine on our MQ-9B aircraft,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “We’ve worked with Pratt & Whitney for years, specifically on our jet-powered Avenger®, and we’ve enjoyed a very productive partnership. The first flight marks an important milestone for MQ-9B SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian® customers and missions that require additional power. In addition, customers who choose the Pratt & Whitney engine will benefit from low sustainment costs from best-in-class Time Between Overhauls, as well as 50+ maintenance and overhaul facilities around the globe.”

The PT6 E-Series is a reliable and versatile turboprop engine family that delivers key performance enhancements applicable to future MQ-9B missions. PT6 delivers a 33 percent increase in power over MQ-9B’s current engine, with a highly mature dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Controller.

MQ-9B is GA-ASI’s next-generation RPA, delivering exceptionally long endurance and range, with auto takeoff and landing under SATCOM-only control, and will be able to operate in unsegregated airspace using the GA-ASI-developed Detect and Avoid system.

Deliveries of MQ-9B have begun for the United Kingdom, with contracts in place with Belgium, Canada, Taiwan, and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command. The Japan Coast Guard is currently operating MQ-9B for maritime operations, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) selected MQ-9B for its Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Trial Operation Project. MQ-9B has also supported various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.

About GA-ASI

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable RPA systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. With more than eight million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness. The company also produces a variety of sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas.

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Avenger, Lynx, Predator, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

Contact Information
GA-ASI Media Relations
asi-mediarelations@ga-asi.com

SOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

GA-ASI Selected to Build CCA for AFLCMC

SAN DIEGO, CA, Apr 25, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has been selected to build production representative flight test articles of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) for the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center’s (AFLCMC) Advanced Aircraft Division. This option contract award by the Advanced Aircraft Division exercises the critical design, build, and flight test on the existing CCA contract with GA-ASI following an initial six-month phase that culminated in a successful CCA preliminary design review (PDR) earlier this year.

The CCA program aims to be a force multiplier, developing a low-cost, modular, unmanned aircraft equipped with advanced sensors or weapons and operating in collaborative teams with the next generation of manned combat aircraft.

In February 2024, GA-ASI successfully conducted the maiden flight of the XQ-67A CCA prototype aircraft validating the “genus/species” concept pioneered by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) as part of the Low-Cost Attritable Aircraft Platform Sharing (LCAAPS) program. This program focused on building several aircraft variants from a common core chassis. Since then, this prototype for CCA has successfully completed two additional test flights, laying the groundwork for a successful production and flight test program. GA-ASI’s CCA production representative design is based upon the XQ-67A Off-Board Sensing Station developed by GA-ASI for the AFRL.

“The CCA program redefines the future of aviation and will shape the USAF acquisition model to deliver affordable combat mass to the warfighter at the speed of relevancy,” said Mike Atwood, Vice President of Advanced Programs for GA-ASI.

“Throughout our 30-year history, GA-ASI has been at the forefront of rapidly advancing unmanned aircraft systems that support our warfighters,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “The USAF is moving forward with GA-ASI due to our focused commitment to unmanned air-to-air combat operations and unmatched UAS experience, ensuring the production of the CCA aircraft at scale to deliver affordable combat mass for the warfighter.”

To complement the CCA contract, GA-ASI will continue to conduct a series of autonomy and mission system tests on the MQ-20 Avenger® UAS and XQ-67A to accelerate the readiness of operational autonomy. These live flight tests will continue to demonstrate the readiness of the full mission capability to support the emerging U.S. Air Force Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACP).

About GA-ASI

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Avenger, Lynx, Predator, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

Contact Information:
GA-ASI Media Relations
asi-mediarelations@ga-asi.com
+1 (858) 524-8101

SOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

View the original press release on newswire.com.

GA-ASI Mojave Lights Up the Yuma Desert in Live-Fire Demonstration

SAN DIEGO, CA, Apr 23, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) confirms that its Mojave Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) destroyed static targets in live-fire tests on April 13, 2024, validating the system’s battlefield relevance and recording another milestone for the demonstrator aircraft.

GA-ASI partnered with Dillon Aero to mount two of Dillon’s DAP-6 Gun Pod Systems onto the Mojave aircraft. Mojave performed seven passes across two flights during the demonstration, expending around 10,000 rounds of ammunition as the UAS shredded a variety of targets.

“Seeing our Mojave perform this live-fire demo really emphasizes the versatility of the Mojave UAS and what it can do,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “Mojave has the ability to act as a sensor, shooter, and sustainer while mitigating threat environments and vulnerabilities and safeguarding human lives.”

Mojave and its short takeoff and landing (STOL) capability has built significant interest in the military and aerospace communities. Mojave is unique: a UAS with significant payload capacity that can perform in areas once considered unsuitable for UAS operations. Its ability to take off and land from unimproved landing sites at short distances as well as operate from aircraft carriers – as it did in November 2023 as part of a demonstration with the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy – is capturing imaginations and changing expectations about how large unmanned systems can be used.

The live-fire demonstration took place at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, and was funded via GA-ASI’s internal research and development budget.

The Mojave technical demonstrator shares common systems and components with GA-ASI’s modernized Gray Eagle 25M, effectively providing an expeditionary Gray Eagle STOL capability. In addition to a wing kit option for Gray Eagle, GA-ASI is planning one for the larger MQ-9B aircraft, which includes SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian® models.

The actual Mojave STOL UAS with multi-mission payloads will be on display in GA-ASI’s booth (#792) at the Army Aviation Mission Solutions Summit in Denver, Colorado, April 24-26, 2024.

About GA-ASI

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Avenger, Lynx, Predator, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

Contact Information
GA-ASI Media Relations
asi-mediarelations@ga-asi.com
+1 (858) 524-8101

SOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

GA-ASI Makes First Flight of XQ-67A OBSS

SAN DIEGO, CA, Mar 1, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) flew the XQ-67A Off-Board Sensing Station (OBSS) for the first time on Feb. 28, 2024. OBSS is an Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) program and GA-ASI was selected in 2021 to design, build and fly the new aircraft.

With flight of the AFRL-funded XQ-67A, GA-ASI has validated the “genus/species” concept first developed with AFRL as part of the Low-Cost Attritable Aircraft Platform Sharing (LCAAPS) program focused on building several aircraft variants from a common core chassis.

Under LCAAPS, AFRL and GA-ASI explored the development of a chassis, termed a “genus”, as the foundational core architecture from which several “species” of aircraft can be built.

“This provides an alternative acquisition approach for military aircraft that enables faster development, lower costs and more opportunities for frequent technology refresh,” said Trenton White, OBSS Program Manager and aerospace engineer in AFRL’s Aerospace Systems Directorate. “XQ-67A is the first ‘species’ to be designed and built from this shared platform. Flight demonstration of this system is a major first step toward showing the ability to produce affordable combat mass.”

“OBSS is the first aircraft type built and flown using a common core chassis developed by GA-ASI that promotes commonality across multiple vehicle types,” said GA-ASI Vice President of Advanced Programs Michael Atwood.

Distribution Statement A: Approved for Public Release; Distribution is Unlimited. PA# AFRL-2024-0708

About GA-ASI

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Avenger, Lynx, Predator, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

About AFRL

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace force. With a workforce of more than 12,500 across nine technology areas and 40 other operations across the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit www.afresearchlab.com.

Contact Information
GA-ASI Media Relations
asi-mediarelations@ga-asi.com
+1 (858) 524-8101

SOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

View the original press release on newswire.com.

General Atomics Expands International Collaborations and Partnerships With Japan in Critical and Emerging Technologies

SAN DIEGO, CA, Feb 20, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – General Atomics, a defense and diversified technologies company with affiliates operating on five continents, is expanding its collaborations and partnerships across Japan with new investments in the nuclear energy and rare earth elements sectors.

Numerous teaming arrangements are in the late stages of discussion and are set to be announced in early 2024. These partnerships will complement the company’s existing relationships as a long-term partner collaborating with Japanese industry and government agencies.

“General Atomics is committed to collaborating with its Japanese partners to advance the development of cutting-edge technologies in the maritime security, nuclear energy, and rare earth elements sectors,” said Dr. Vivek Lall, chief executive at General Atomics Global Corporation. “Building on a legacy of successful collaborations, we have held a series of strategic engagements with government officials, industry leaders, and research institutions in Japan. These engagements have laid the foundation for future partnerships aimed at advancing the development of critical and emerging technologies.”

In 2023, Japan’s Kyoto Fusioneering announced an agreement with GA to supply two advanced gyrotrons to the U.S. Department of Energy’s DIII-D National Fusion Facility in San Diego, California.

Currently, the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) are testing and deploying the MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) built by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). SeaGuardian is a long-endurance maritime surveillance aircraft that can be used for a variety of missions, including search and rescue, disaster response, and maritime law enforcement.

GA-ASI’s MQ-9B aircraft is revolutionizing the global RPA systems market by providing true all-weather capability and full compliance with STANAG-4671 (NATO UAS airworthiness standard). This feature, along with GA-ASI’s operationally proven collision avoidance radar, enables flexible operations in civil airspace.

About GA-ASI

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Avenger, Lynx, Predator, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

Contact Information
GA-ASI Media Relations
asi-mediarelations@ga-asi.com
+1 (858) 524-8101

SOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

View the original press release on newswire.com.

Government of Canada Orders the MQ-9B SkyGuardian RPAS From GA-ASI

SAN DIEGO, CA, Dec 20, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The Government of Canada has signed a contract to purchase a fleet of MQ-9B SkyGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). The order includes the associated Certified Ground Control Stations and support equipment from GA-ASI. The first delivery is expected in 2028.

The SkyGuardian RPAS is interoperable with Canada’s domestic missions and its continental defence missions through NORAD, as well as with Canada’s closest allies – including the Five Eyes Alliance (FVEY) and NATO – for seamless integration with current and future Canadian defence, civil air, and ground assets.

“Canada’s vast territory and complex terrains, including in the Arctic, require a cost-effective multi-mission RPAS solution that can endure long periods on station, fly in harsh weather environments, and safely operate in all airspaces,” said Linden Blue, CEO of GA-ASI. “MQ-9B SkyGuardian delivers those critical capabilities. GA-ASI and Team SkyGuardian Canada are honored by this opportunity to become a key partner to Canada for the very long term in delivering these no-fail defence and security outcomes.”

Team SkyGuardian Canada is a coalition of leading Canadian businesses – including CAE, MDA Ltd., and L3Harris Technologies – that are working with GA-ASI on MQ-9B development, delivery, and sustainment. Canada’s investments in the RPAS Project and Team SkyGuardian Canada are a direct reflection of Canada’s vested domestic interest in pursuing leading-edge RPAS technologies.

GA-ASI has had a long, successful, and proud history with Canadian industry that continues to grow. Nearly every system that GA-ASI has delivered throughout its more than 30-year history has contained some level of Canadian content, including sensors, propulsion equipment, and training/simulation systems and services. CAE, MDA Ltd., L3Harris, and GA-ASI are committed to delivering the world’s premier RPAS capability to Canada while creating domestic economic benefits and work opportunities.

MQ-9B is the next generation of RPAS, delivering exceptionally long endurance and range, with auto takeoff and landing under SATCOM-only control, and will be able to operate in unsegregated airspace using the GA-ASI developed Detect and Avoid system. First customer deliveries of MQ-9B began in 2022 to the U.K. Royal Air Force, and contracts have been signed with Belgium and the U.S. Air Force, in support of Special Operations Command. The Japan Coast Guard is currently operating the MQ-9B for maritime operations, which the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) also selected for its Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) RPAS Trial Operation Project. MQ-9B has additionally supported various U.S. Navy exercises this year, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.

“We look forward to working with our Team SkyGuardian Canada partners to deliver our industry-leading RPAS for Canada’s dynamic mission requirements. GA-ASI is the world leader in reliable, cost-efficient, and sustainable remotely piloted aircraft systems. These aircraft perform advanced interoperable and systems-of-systems operations for our valued customers around the world – all at a fraction of the carbon footprint impact as traditional manned systems performing similar missions,” added Blue.

About GA-ASI

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Avenger, Lynx, Predator, and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

Contact Information:
GA-ASI Media Relations
asi-mediarelations@ga-asi.com
+1 (858) 524-8101

SOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

View the original press release on newswire.com.

MOU Partnership Signed between Organisers of Bali International Airshow and Angkasa Pura I

DENPASAR, Indonesia, Dec 1, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed between Indonesian state-owned enterprise PT Angkasa Pura I I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport – Bali and PT Inaro Tujuh Belas for the use of Ngurah Rai International Airport facilities for Bali International Airshow. This MOU and partnership will allow Bali International Airshow organisers, PT Inaro Tujuh Belas, to utilise the hangar and south apron of Ngurah Rai Bali International Airport as the official venue for Bali International Airshow 2024.

Mr. Jodi Mahardi (Deputy of Maritime and Energy Sovereignty Coordination, Coordinating Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Investment of the Republic of Indonesia), Mr. Andy Wismarsyah (President Director of PT Inaro Tujuh Belas), Mr. Handy Heryudhitiawan (General Manager of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport) and I Kadek Mudarta. [L-R]

With the potential and necessity for air transport in Indonesia as an archipelago, Bali International Airshow is expected to utilise this opportunity to continuously grow until the foreseeable future. This will render Bali International Airshow the ability to develop into a must-attend event in the global airshow calendar.

The partnership between both parties was signed off between Mr. Handy Heryudhitiawan, the General Manager of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and Mr. Andy Wismarsyah, the President Director of PT Inaro Tujuh Belas on 28 November at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) South Apron of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. The MOU signing ceremony was witnessed by Mr Jodi Mahardi, the Deputy of Maritime and Energy Sovereignty Coordination, Coordinating Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Investment of the Republic of Indonesia. Also in attendance were Mr Renaud Hamaide (Chairman and CEO of Comexposium), Ms Elaine Chia (CEO Asia Pacific Comexposium), Danny Budiharto (Chairman of Amara Group) and Seno Damono (COO of PT Inaro Tujuh Belas).

“As we edge closer to the 2024 Bali International Airshow to be held in September 2024, this important milestone highlights a big step in the preparations for the event. This MOU also highlights great support for the airshow by various government bodies, including PT Angkasa Pura I,” said Mr. Wismarsyah.

The Bali International Airshow 2024 is a collaborative endeavour involving the whole of Indonesia government, comprised of Indonesian Ministries and government agencies which include the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime and Investment Affairs, the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Ministry of Transportation, Ministry of State-Owned Enterprise, Indonesian Air Forces, and PT Angkasa Pura I.

“The MOU between PT Angkasa Pura I and PT Inaro Tujuh Belas becomes a momentum to ensure the readiness of the preparations for Bali International Airshow next year. We, as the airport manager, will ensure this event can happen smoothly alongside ongoing flight operations. This will also be a great opportunity to introduce Indonesia at the global stage to participants who will be attending the airshow as delegates and visitors, and we are proud to be a part of it,” added Mr. Heryudhitiawan.

The Bali International Airshow is Southeast Asia’s premier exposition for aerospace, aero technology, and defence, dedicated to propelling Indonesia to the forefront of the regional aerospace industry. This prestigious event will serve as a pivotal platform that unites diverse industry stakeholders to champion innovation in aerospace across Southeast Asia and Indonesia.

Hosted by the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime and Investment Affairs, the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Transportation, and supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, the Indonesian Air Forces (TNI AU), PT Angkasa Pura I, AirNav Indonesia and the Ngurah Rai International Airport Authorities, the Bali International Airshow signifies Indonesia’s unwavering commitment to excellence in the aerospace sector.

The event will encompass a total area of 85,000 sqm, consisting of a static aircraft display area covering more than 70,000 sqm and an exhibition hall spanning approximately 14,000 sqm.

The event will also bring together more than 300 participating companies and more than 100 hosted delegations from over 35 countries and regions, and will also have 10 country pavilions on display.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Jose Raymond
M: +6591478040
E: jose.raymond@swstrategies.org

About Bali International Airshow

The Bali International Airshow 2024 aims to be Southeast Asia’s most eminent international exposition for aerospace, aero technology, and defense. With a dedicated focus on propelling Indonesia to the forefront of the regional aerospace industry, this prestigious event serves as a pivotal platform that unites diverse stakeholders within the industry, championing aerospace innovation in Southeast Asia and Indonesia.

Hosted by The Coordinating Ministry for Maritime and Investment Affairs, the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Transportation and supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU), and Ngurah Rai International Airport Authorities, the Bali International Airshow 2024 is a collaborative effort that signifies Indonesia’s commitment to excellence in the aerospace sector. The Bali International Airshow 2024 is scheduled to take place from September 18 to 21, 2024. For more information, visit www.BaliAirshow.com

GA-ASI Demonstrates Short Takeoff/Landing of UAS on UK Carrier

SAN DIEGO, CA, Nov 20, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) conducted a first-of-its-kind demonstration of its short takeoff and landing (STOL) capability on the HMS Prince of Wales, a Royal Navy aircraft carrier, using the Mojave Unmanned Aircraft System. The demonstration took place on November 15, 2023, when the Prince of Wales was underway off the East Coast of the U.S., and the Mojave was controlled by an aircrew within a control station onboard the ship. The demonstration included takeoff, circuits, and approaches and ended with a landing back onto the carrier.

“We applaud the Royal Navy’s foresight in embracing this unprecedented capability for its carriers,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. “We knew our STOL capability would enable a UAS to safely take off and land on the Prince of Wales. Seeing our Mojave operate successfully in this environment opens myriad new ways our aircraft can be used to support multi-domain naval operations.”

Mojave is a short takeoff and landing UAS demonstrator originally developed to prove STOL operations at unprepared landing sites. While Mojave shares common systems and components with GA-ASI’s Gray Eagle model, a STOL wing set option is likewise being planned for the larger, more capable MQ-9B aircraft, which includes SkyGuardian(R), SeaGuardian(R), and the new Protector RG Mk 1 currently being delivered to the UK Royal Air Force. The MQ-9B version, called MQ-9B STOL, is being considered by the Royal Navy and other navies that operate aircraft from large flat-deck warships without catapults and arresting gear.

Royal Navy Director Develop, Rear Admiral James Parkin, whose team planned the trial, said: “The Mojave trial is a European first – the first time that a Remotely Piloted Air System of this size has operated to and from an aircraft carrier outside of the United States. The success of this trial heralds a new dawn in how we conduct maritime aviation and is another exciting step in the evolution of the Royal Navy’s Carrier Strike Group into a mixed crewed and uncrewed fighting force.”

Equipping UAS with STOL capability provides greater versatility and allows the aircraft to operate in areas previously deemed unsuitable for UAS operations, including landing onto and taking off from an aircraft carrier. MQ-9B STOL will be capable of carrying the same payloads and conducting the same missions as the SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian, including maritime surveillance, Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Airborne Early Warning (AEW), and surface strike.

About GA-ASI

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable RPA systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator(R) RPA series and the Lynx(R) Multi-mode Radar. With more than eight million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness. The company also produces a variety of sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas.

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Avenger, Lynx, Predator, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

Contact Information

GA-ASI Media Relations, asi-mediarelations@ga-asi.com, +1 (858) 524-8101

GA-ASI Partners With EDGE to Integrate Smart Weapons Onto MQ-9B

DUBAI, Nov 13, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, electro-optics, and related mission systems, and EDGE, a world-leading advanced technology group for defence and beyond, announced an agreement today to integrate EDGE smart weapons onto GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian® RPA.

Under the agreement announced at the Dubai Airshow, the two companies will work together to integrate precision-guided munition (PGM) and guided-glide weapon (GGW) solutions from EDGE onto GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian.

“We’re excited to work with EDGE on this initiative,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “Integrating home-grown capabilities onto our customer platforms is something we’ve done a lot, but we’ve never before integrated a non-NATO weapon system onto one of our RPA platforms.”

The partnership marks the first time that UAE-made smart weapons will be integrated onto a U.S. unmanned platform, signalling a new chapter in U.S.-UAE defence cooperation, and opening the door to further collaboration.

Hamad Al Marar, President of EDGE Group’s Missiles & Weapons cluster, said, “We are proud to be working with General Atomics Aeronautical. The opportunity to integrate our smart weapons on the MQ-9B SkyGuardian will offer the end user multiple dynamic, highly accurate, and cost-effective ground strike solutions. We look forward to working closely with General Atomics Aeronautical on this programme and to enhancing our collaboration in the future.”

The EDGE smart weapons designated for integration include the DESERT STING family of GGWs and THUNDER family of cost-effective PGMs from HALCON, and the AL TARIQ family of modular, mission-proven, all-weather day/night long-range PGMs.

GA-ASI hopes that its work with EDGE will lead to more partnerships within the UAE defence industry in order to integrate domestically developed sensors and weapons onto the MQ-9B for the UAE and other customers.

The UAE Armed Forces currently operate GA-ASI’s Predator XP and are working with GA-ASI and the U.S. Department of Defense to acquire the MQ-9B.

Attendees of the Dubai Airshow can visit GA-ASI at stand 1380 and EDGE and its portfolio of companies at indoor stand 520 and outdoor stand S49 at Dubai World Central.

About EDGE

Launched in November 2019, the UAE’s EDGE is one of the world’s leading advanced technology groups, established to develop agile, bold, and disruptive solutions for defence and beyond, and to be a catalyst for change and transformation. It is dedicated to bringing breakthrough innovations, products, and services to market with greater speed and efficiency, to positioning the UAE as a leading global hub for future industries, and to creating clear paths within the sector for the next generation of highly skilled talent to thrive. With a focus on the adoption of 4IR technologies, EDGE is driving the development of sovereign capabilities for global export and for the preservation of national security, working with front-line operators and international partners, and adopting advanced technologies such as autonomous capabilities, cyber-physical systems, advanced propulsion systems, robotics, and smart materials. EDGE converges R&D, emerging technologies, digital transformation, and commercial market innovations with military capabilities to develop disruptive solutions tailored to the specific requirements of its customers. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, capital of the UAE, EDGE consolidates more than 25 entities into five core clusters: Platforms & Systems, Missiles & Weapons, Space & Cyber Technologies, Trading & Mission Support, and Homeland Security. For more information, visit edgegroup.ae.

About GA-ASI

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Avenger, Lynx, Predator, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

Contact Information
GA-ASI Media Relations
asi-mediarelations@ga-asi.com
+1 (858) 524-8101

GA-ASI Mojave STOL UAS Completes First Dirt Operation

SAN DIEGO, CA, Aug 4, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – On Aug. 1, 2023, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) completed multiple successful takeoffs and landings with its Mojave Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) on a dirt strip near El Mirage, Calif.

The ability to take off and land on unimproved surfaces demonstrates Mojave's departure from traditional fixed-wing aircraft's dependence on prepared runways. This new capability provides greater versatility and allows the aircraft to operate in areas previously deemed unsuitable for UAS operations.

"Being able to execute missions in austere locations with runway independence opens the operational envelope for commanders across all services and geographic locations," said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. "Mojave can do this while retaining significant advantages in endurance and persistence over Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) and manned aircraft."

The flight tests were the first-ever Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) on a dirt surface for Mojave. Takeoffs were performed in as little as 586 feet, and short landings were completed in as little as 335 feet. The tests were primarily focused on gathering terrain feedback using Mojave, not achieving the shortest distances possible.

Tracing its lineage from the MQ-1C Gray Eagle and MQ-9 Reaper, Mojave is a technical demonstrator with STOL capability, making it a versatile expeditionary UAS. Adhering to Modular Open System Approach (MOSA) principles, Mojave leverages the modernized avionics, data links, sensor integration, and laptop ground control station of GA-ASI's Gray Eagle 25M program. These features – along with Mojave's enlarged wings with high-lift devices, combat-proven 450-HP turbine engine, and ruggedized landing gear – make it ideal for semi-improved surfaces with a small ground support footprint.

Mojave provides options for forward-basing operations without the need for typical airport runways or infrastructure, so it can be rapidly deployed from and recovered to non-traditional discrete locations. To extend operational reach, Mojave can fit into a C-130 and be rapidly assembled and employed. These innovations make Mojave the perfect UAS to perform Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA), attack, and contested logistics support missions.

Designed to be rapidly deployable and expeditionary, Mojave's tailored features include a ruggedized airframe that enables operations in austere conditions and weatherization that enables flight in wider environmental windows. Robust wing storage means it can carry up to 16 Hellfire or equivalent missiles, assorted munitions, Launched Effects (LEs), or logistical resupply pods. Mojave can provide greater operational flexibility while still being equipped with a multi-sensor suite that includes Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR), Synthetic Aperture Radar/Ground Moving Target Indicator (SAR/GMTI), Electronic Intelligence (ELINT), and Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) to support land or maritime missions throughout Joint All-Domain Operations (JADO).

To see a video of the Mojave dirt operation, click here. https://pr.report/Gi4obAIc

About GA-ASI

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator(R) RPA series and the Lynx(R) Multi-mode Radar. With more than eight million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness. The company also produces a variety of sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas. For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Avenger, Lynx, Predator, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

Contact Information
GA-ASI Media Relations
GA-ASI Media Relations
asi-mediarelations@ga-asi.com
+1 (858) 524-8101

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