Indo-Pacific 2022: Despite grim Reaper decision, GA-ASI retains hope
The MQ-9B can launch sonobuoys, giving the UCAV an ASW application. (Photo: Gordon Arthur)
Naval Group was not present at the Sydney expo after cancellation of its submarine programme, but GA-ASI put in an appearance despite its own Australian setback.
Australia delivered a bolt from the blue for General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI) when it cancelled a programme to buy 12 MQ-9B Reaper UCAVs. Nonetheless, the US company was present at the Indo-Pacific 2022 naval exhibition in Sydney on 10-12 May as it continued to promote its UCAV credentials.
Abandonment of the pending $1.65 billion buy under Project Air 7003 was announced on 1 April, with Canberra claiming that budget was the main reason.
No contract had been signed up till that point, but the cancellation was nonetheless sudden. However, there is a possibility that, if the current government led by Scott
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 2 free stories per week
- Daily news round-up email service
- Access to all Decisive Edge email newsletters
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
More from Air Warfare
-
![Lessons learned from supplier switching on fast jet fleets]()
Lessons learned from supplier switching on fast jet fleets
How difficult is it for air forces to change aircraft fleets, moving from one defence hemisphere to another?
-
![Italy orders up to 24 Eurofighter Typhoon jets]()
Italy orders up to 24 Eurofighter Typhoon jets
The Tranche 4 deliveries will be expected to continue until 2030.
-
![Ireland signs $93 million deal for new utility helicopters]()
Ireland signs $93 million deal for new utility helicopters
Ireland is replacing its ageing EC135 aircraft but is boosting the capability provided with the addition of new sensors which is planned to even provide a light attack role.
-
![Undisclosed customer signs for two C-390 Millennium aircraft]()
Undisclosed customer signs for two C-390 Millennium aircraft
The customer would be the 10th nation to select the C-390 after several others signed orders for the aircraft in 2024.
-
![Assessing Saab’s future as an independent combat aircraft developer]()
Assessing Saab’s future as an independent combat aircraft developer
Can Sweden’s Saab continue to go it alone in the fighter jet market, or could it boost its profile by forging new partnerships?
