General Atomics nets first US customer for MQ-9B SkyGuardian UAS
Air Force Special Operations Command will receive three MQ-9B SkyGuardian aircraft. (Photo: GA-ASI)
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc (GA-ASI) has netted the first US customer for its MQ-9B SkyGuardian remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) with a selection by Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC).
Under a new contract, GA-ASI will provide AFSOC with three MQ-9B aircraft, following in the footsteps of the UK, Belgium and Japan, among others.
The AFSOC acquisition of the MQ-9B builds on over 14 years’ experience operating the MQ-9A Reaper.
GA-ASI president David R Alexander said: ‘We’re very excited to continue our great partnership with AFSOC well into the future,
‘MQ-9B is the ideal platform for inserting air-launched
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
Ukraine fighter jet plans accelerate with Sweden and Belgian updates
The country could be on the cusp of finalising an historic deal with Saab for up to 150 aircraft, with Belgium also increasing its number of donated F-16 aircraft to 53 with refreshed delivery timelines.
-
US Air Force prepares next stage of E-3 Sentry modernisation
The USAF intends to conduct the second phase of the DRAGON programme from FY2026 to FY2030, while the future of the E3 replacement remains unknown.
-
Indonesia strengthens Turkish defence ties with Kizilelma drone order
Indonesia’s purchase of 12 drones with options for an additional 48 is the third deal in as many years between Indonesian and Turkish defence industries, bolstering the former’s plans to strengthen its own domestic production and defence industry.