In a significant advancement for unmanned aerial vehicle technology, General Atomics has successfully tested the MQ-9B SeaGuardian’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities. During recent demonstrations, the advanced drone showcased its ability to effectively detect, track, and analyze underwater targets while collecting vital acoustic intelligence.
To evaluate its ASW functionality, the MQ-9B deployed a series of anti-submarine sensors utilizing multiple pre-production Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS) pods. These SDS pods were instrumental in releasing a number of sonobuoys that performed onboard thermal-depth and acoustic data processing, significantly enhancing the aircraft’s underwater surveillance capabilities.
Each SDS pod is designed to deploy a maximum of 10 A-size or 20 G-size sonobuoys, which transmit essential acoustic data to a Sonobuoy Monitoring and Control System. This sophisticated system processes incoming signals and employs specialized acoustic software to track underwater targets, providing real-time information on their speed, course, and depth.
David R. Alexander, President of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, expressed enthusiasm about the demonstration, stating, “This demonstration represents a major leap forward in unmanned capabilities and marks a major milestone in proving that an unmanned aircraft can perform end-to-end persistent ASW operations.”
The MQ-9B SeaGuardian is engineered with an open and modular mission management system, which allows operators to swiftly adapt to a variety of operational requirements. Equipped with advanced ASW systems, the SeaGuardian can efficiently track submarines while simultaneously monitoring crucial maritime areas, including busy shipping lanes and strategic chokepoints.
Versatile in its operations, the MQ-9B can also be configured for signals intelligence at both tactical and strategic levels as well as for airborne early warning missions. With a length of 38 feet (11.7 meters) and a wingspan of 79 feet (24 meters), the aircraft boasts automatic takeoff and landing capabilities. It supports a maximum takeoff weight of 12,500 pounds (5,670 kilograms) and has a notable fuel capacity of 6,000 pounds (2,721 kilograms).
Powered by a Honeywell TPE331-10 turboprop engine, the MQ-9B can ascend to altitudes exceeding 40,000 feet (12,200 meters). It also offers an impressive operational endurance of over 30 hours and a range that extends to 5,000 nautical miles (5,753 miles or 9,260 kilometers).
General Atomics has secured numerous international orders for the MQ-9B, with recent contracts confirmed with Japan, India, and Greece, reflecting the growing global demand for advanced unmanned systems capable of supporting sophisticated military operations.
