General Atomics delivers first new build extended range MQ-9A to US Marine Corps
The extended-range version of the MQ-9A offers improved endurance without sacrificing sensors. (Photo: GA-ASI)
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI) has delivered the first new build MQ-9 Extended Range (ER) to the US Marine Corps (USMC).
The MQ-9A ER increases the endurance of the UAS beyond 30 hours without sacrificing sensor capabilities.
Delivery of the first new build MQ-9A ER is part of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Unmanned Expeditionary (MUX) programme.
GA-ASI MQ-9 systems VP Fred Darlington said: 'It's exciting to make this initial delivery to NAVAIR, which strengthens the relationship between GA-ASI, the USMC and NAVAIR, while launching the MUX MALE (medium-altitude, long-endurance) programme of record from concept into reality,'
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The USMC selected the US drone maker to deliver eight MQ-9A ERs in 2022.
The UAS is designed with field-retrofittable capabilities, including wing-mounted fuel pods and reinforced landing gear.
It offers long-endurance, persistent surveillance capabilities with full-motion video and synthetic aperture radar.
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