Features Enable Future Open Mission Systems

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has flown the first production MQ-9A variant configured for Multi-Domain Operations (M2DO).

This upgraded version of the MQ-9A Block 5 UAS, also known as the ‘-25,’ includes key features that will enable future integration and fielding of open mission systems, as well as new sensors that will further expand the MQ-9A Reaper’s strategic reconnaissance capabilities. Features include improved power distribution and redundancy, GPS improvements, radar altimeters, nose-wheel steering, and angle of attack (AoA) sensor system improvements.

Both the USAF and USMC will receive these improved MQ-9A Block 5-25 M2DO-ready aircraft under current contracts; however, the total number of aircraft receiving these improvements has not yet been released. “Future funding could potentially expand these capabilities to the entire MQ-9A fleet,” commented GA-ASI’s VP of USAF Programs, Claudia Mowery.