General Atomics delivers first new build extended range MQ-9A to US Marine Corps
The extended-range version of the MQ-9A offers improved endurance without sacrificing sensors. (Photo: GA-ASI)
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI) has delivered the first new build MQ-9 Extended Range (ER) to the US Marine Corps (USMC).
The MQ-9A ER increases the endurance of the UAS beyond 30 hours without sacrificing sensor capabilities.
Delivery of the first new build MQ-9A ER is part of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Unmanned Expeditionary (MUX) programme.
GA-ASI MQ-9 systems VP Fred Darlington said: 'It's exciting to make this initial delivery to NAVAIR, which strengthens the relationship between GA-ASI, the USMC and NAVAIR, while launching the MUX MALE (medium-altitude, long-endurance) programme of record from concept into reality,'
Related Articles
General Atomics achieves AI flight milestone with Avenger UAV
Highway landing opens door to future MQ-9 Reaper capabilities
Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force begins trials with MQ-9B SeaGuardian UAS
The USMC selected the US drone maker to deliver eight MQ-9A ERs in 2022.
The UAS is designed with field-retrofittable capabilities, including wing-mounted fuel pods and reinforced landing gear.
It offers long-endurance, persistent surveillance capabilities with full-motion video and synthetic aperture radar.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
![AUSA 2024: Quantum-Systems targets big 2025 with UAS developments]()
AUSA 2024: Quantum-Systems targets big 2025 with UAS developments
Quantum-Systems has been upgrading its UAS family, with new versions of the Vector, Reliant and Twister drones set for release throughout 2025.
-
![US Army accelerates acquisition and field of company-level sUAS]()
US Army accelerates acquisition and field of company-level sUAS
The service has been using a Directed Requirement (DR) approach to speed up the deployment of a Medium Range Reconnaissance capability.
-
![AeroVironment to display eVTOL P550 at AUSA 2024]()
AeroVironment to display eVTOL P550 at AUSA 2024
AeroVironment’s portfolio will grow thanks to the eVTOL P550 aimed at battalion-level tactical forces.
-
![Australia’s air force aims its UAV fleet northwards]()
Australia’s air force aims its UAV fleet northwards
The Royal Australian Air Force is advancing its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilities across three key programmes as it works with the likes of Boeing and Northrop Grumman to reshape Australia’s defence strategy.
-
![FTUAS competitor trials were “very successful”, says US Army official]()
FTUAS competitor trials were “very successful”, says US Army official
Prototypes from Griffon Aerospace and Textron Systems recently passed through MOSA conformance trials and flight tests.
-
![Pentagon adds Replicator 2 to budget request with focus on C-sUAS capabilities]()
Pentagon adds Replicator 2 to budget request with focus on C-sUAS capabilities
Funds for the second phase of this effort will be allocated in the US Department of Defense (DoD) FY2026 budget request.
