General Atomics helps train Marines for MQ-9A Reaper as service struggles to meet UAV operator requirements
The USMC is forecast to acquire an additional six RQ-9A units to achieve its fleet size of 18 Reapers. (Photo: GA-ASI)
General Atomics is conducting high-level training exercises with the US Marine Corps using its MQ-9A Reaper as the service experiences training problems under arrangements that could lead to a potential long-term partnership.
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) is working with the USMC on a series of service-level training exercises (SLTE) using a company-owned MQ-9A Reaper UAS to support the Marine Air-Ground Task Force Training Command (MAGTFCT).
SLTE 2-23 is being conducted near Twentynine Palms, California, with participation from joint forces. General Atomics began flying the MQ-9A on 3 February, with a combination of company and VMU-3 pilots and sensor operators.
The USMC said the MQ-9A enabled it to begin integrating Group 5 uncrewed aircraft into the Marine Air-Ground Task Force for the first time.
‘GA-ASI is always ready and willing to support
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