AeroVironment and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) have successfully conducted the inaugural air launch of the Switchblade 600 loitering munition from the MQ-9A Reaper at the US Army Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona. This milestone marks a significant advancement in the development of long-range precision strike capabilities for unmanned aerial systems.
The recent trials were pivotal in affirming the compatibility of the Switchblade 600 with the MQ-9A Reaper, showcasing the munition’s ability to operate under satellite communication control for beyond-line-of-sight missions. The tests included launches employing both an inert warhead and a live high-explosive round that successfully struck designated targets, reaffirming the weapon’s enhanced guidance, navigation, and payload systems aimed at boosting operational accuracy and reliability. Notably, the Switchblade 600 demonstrated an impressive operational range, capable of traveling over 175 kilometers (approximately 109 miles) when deployed from an altitude of 30,000 feet (9,144 meters).
Control of the Switchblade system was transitioned post-launch from the MQ-9A’s ground control station to a separate operator positioned closer to the intended operational area. This procedural change enabled operators to effectively coordinate strikes from standoff distances while maintaining direct communication with ground forces.
The consortium emphasized that the demonstration in Arizona underscored the potential of loitering munitions in supporting multi-domain operations, where the demands for speed, flexibility, and precision are increasingly vital. Additionally, the event illustrated the MQ-9A’s capability to serve as a “mothership,” facilitating airborne-launched effects and thereby providing military commanders with enhanced strike options in contested environments.
David Alexander, President of GA-ASI, commented on the success of the cooperative initiative, highlighting how the integration of diverse unmanned technologies can significantly enhance operational effectiveness for military personnel. Similarly, AeroVironment’s Executive Vice President, Jimmy Jenkins, noted that the recent test exemplified the advantages of combining established systems to unlock new operational opportunities.
Both the Switchblade 600 and the MQ-9A are already integral components of several military forces worldwide. The US military has received hundreds of Switchblade loitering munitions and boasts an inventory of approximately 200 MQ-9 Reapers, signaling a continuing commitment to advancing drone warfare capabilities.
