US Navy evaluates MQ-9B SeaGuardian at Whidbey Island
GA-ASI announced on 25 June that it is adapting its Block 30 ground control systems to interface with both MQ-9A and MQ-9B platforms. (General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc)
The US Navy (USN) evaluated the General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI) MQ-9B SeaGuardian at the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force (MPRF) Commander's Operational Group (COG) at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI) in Oak Harbor, Washington, GA-ASI announced in an 30 September press release.
The evaluation, which is part of an ongoing capability assessment for the USN 7th Fleet, aims to “determine the viability of an [unmanned aerial system] UAS as a Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft (MPRA) to augment the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force” a GA-ASI spokesperson told Janes on 1 October.
The evaluation brings “MPRF senior leaders, tacticians, and industry partners” together to discuss “cutting-edge naval aviation capabilities and review Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) operational Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) currently employed throughout the Fleet”, according to GA-ASI.
GA-ASI's demonstration of the MQ-9B gave attendees an “up-close look at a maritime-optimized Group 5 remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) currently being employed by the USN and several foreign partners”, according to a company statement.
The USN has been evaluating the SeaGuardian's potential application for a “multitude of missions” according to GA-ASI, with Whidbey Island serving as a staging ground.
GA-ASI's spokesperson said Whidbey Island was the most suitable location for the evaluation because it is “co-located with the Theater Undersea Warfare Command and Patrol and Recon Wing 10 (West Coast P8 Wing)”.
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