In a significant milestone for aerial technology, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) conducted a successful test flight of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft on July 15, 2024. This flight featured the advanced PT6 E-Series turboprop engine, courtesy of Pratt & Whitney Canada. Key representatives from both companies observed the event, noting the aircraft’s impressive performance and acceleration during the 44-minute flight.
“We’re excited to see the PT6 engine on our MQ-9B aircraft,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “We’ve worked with Pratt & Whitney for years, specifically on our jet-powered Avenger®, and we’ve enjoyed a very productive partnership. The first flight marks an important milestone for MQ-9B SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian® customers and missions that require additional power. In addition, customers who choose the Pratt & Whitney engine will benefit from low sustainment costs from best-in-class Time Between Overhauls, as well as 50+ maintenance and overhaul facilities around the globe.”
The PT6 E-Series engine is celebrated for its reliability and versatility, presenting critical performance improvements for future MQ-9B missions. This engine model boosts the power output by 33 percent compared to the current engine used in the MQ-9B, and features a sophisticated dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Controller.
The MQ-9B represents the next leap in remotely piloted aircraft technology, boasting extended endurance and range capabilities. It includes features like auto takeoff and landing that can be controlled exclusively via SATCOM, and is designed to operate safely in shared airspace with GA-ASI’s proprietary Detect and Avoid system.
Deliveries of the MQ-9B have already commenced to the United Kingdom, with additional agreements in place for Belgium, Canada, Taiwan, and the U.S. Air Force, supporting Special Operations Command. In Japan, the Coast Guard is actively using the MQ-9B for maritime missions, while the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) has chosen the MQ-9B for its Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Trial Operation Project. Additionally, the MQ-9B has been instrumental in various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.
This successful test marks a significant advancement in aerial technology, promising enhanced capabilities and performance for future MQ-9B operations globally.