General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has demonstrated software that will provide in-flight target updates that will enable the MQ-9B SeaGuardian Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) to close gaps on maritime targets. In a recent ground test, GA-ASI demonstrated the ability to send sensor data to the missile via Link 16 messaging. The software, part of General Atomics’ Quadratix software enterprise, was validated in a Systems Integration Lab and is gearing up for a live-fire demonstration later this year.
“We continue to build on the innovative capabilities of SeaGuardian for the U.S. Navy,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “The targeting we’ve demonstrated will be especially valuable in contested environments, enabling an unmanned asset like SeaGuardian to be used for higher-risk missions instead of putting manned assets at risk.”
Being able to fire and use SeaGuardian for targeting will significantly enhance the aircraft’s mission set. GA-ASI first showcased its targeting capability for SeaGuardian during the U.S. Navy’s Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024.
SeaGuardian is a maritime derivative of GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian and remains the first UAS to offer multi-domain Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Targeting (ISR&T) as an internal payload that can search the ocean’s surface and its depths in support of Fleet Operations.
With strong demand already in place, GA-ASI anticipates increasing interest in the MQ-9B SeaGuardian because it delivers high-end maritime capabilities at a significantly lower cost than traditional manned maritime platforms.
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Why haven’t the ADF purchases 30 of these? They would be perfect patrolling the pacific and Indian oceans for the next 20 years.. not everywhere is going to be high risk these keeping eye and everything in check in the back ground grey zones is invaluable.. how can this not been taken up buy Australian governments?
Because the previous Coalition government – when Dutton was Defence Minister – cancelled the deal with General Atomics, without explanation. Labor promised to review the decision when they came to government but of course did nothing. The project was known as AIR 7003 and if it hadn’t been dumped we would now have a fleet of armed Predator Bs in service.