What's Happening?
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc (GA-ASI) is advancing the development of a stand-off weapons capability for its MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Announced on February 23, the California-based company is focusing on integrating
long-range weapons into the medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) UAV. The MQ-9B, known as SkyGuardian in its overland role and SeaGuardian in its maritime configuration, is designed to carry various weapons and sensors across its nine external stations. The UAV can operate at a maximum altitude of 45,000 feet, with an endurance exceeding 40 hours and a top speed of 200 knots. GA-ASI is considering weapons such as the Lockheed Martin AGM-158A/B Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) and AGM-158C Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM), as well as the Kongsberg/Raytheon Joint Strike Missile (JSM). Flight trials for these weapons are expected to commence later in 2026.
Why It's Important?
The development of stand-off weapons capability for the MQ-9B UAV represents a significant advancement in military technology, enhancing the strategic capabilities of the U.S. armed forces. This capability allows the UAV to engage targets from a distance, reducing the risk to personnel and equipment. The integration of advanced weaponry such as the JASSM and LRASM could provide the U.S. military with greater flexibility and effectiveness in various operational scenarios, particularly in contested environments. This development could also influence global military dynamics, as other nations may seek to develop or acquire similar capabilities to maintain strategic parity.
What's Next?
GA-ASI plans to conduct flight trials of the integrated weapons systems on the MQ-9B later in 2026. These trials will be crucial in validating the UAV's capability to effectively deploy long-range stand-off weapons. The outcomes of these trials could lead to further refinements in the UAV's design and operational concepts. Additionally, the successful integration of these weapons could prompt interest from international allies, potentially leading to collaborative defense initiatives or sales.
