Taiwan gets four MQ-9B SkyGuardians
The MQ-9B is an upgraded variant of the MQ-9A designed for ISR missions. (Photo: GA-ASI)
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) has been awarded an up to US$250 million contract to provide four MQ-9B SkyGuardian UAVs to Taiwan.
The deal included two certifiable ground control stations, spares and support equipment. Deliveries have been scheduled for completion by mid-2027.
The MQ-9B is an upgraded variant of the MQ-9A designed for ISR missions. The UAV is split into two variants, the SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian.
The two models are mostly indistinguishable, with specific payloads outfitting the SkyGuardian for over-land operations and the SeaGuardian for maritime operations. A short takeoff and landing (STOL) kit for the platform has been under development.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
Portugal joins Embraer and Brazil on C-390 ISR capabilities study
The ongoing study was first announced by Embraer in late 2024 with the Brazilian Air Force, with this latest addition announced during the LAAD defence and security exhibition.
-
Philippines approved for potential $5.5 billion F-16 aircraft purchase
The potential sale, approved by the US to the Philippines, is for 20 F-16 Block 70/72 jets, days after US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth visited the country.
-
Sweden commits to acquire four C-390 Millennium aircraft
The acquisition of four C-390 aircraft follows the country’s signing of an MoU in 2023 and formal selection in 2024. It will join the existing contract held by the Netherlands and Austria.