The US Navy’s MQ-9 Reaper test squadron at Pax River in Maryland has officially received the first SkyTower II airborne network extension pod, marking a significant advance in military technology. This delivery represents a crucial step in preparing the system for its initial operational capability, which is anticipated to be achieved with the US Marine Corps next year.
The SkyTower pod is designed to significantly enhance cross-domain communication capabilities, allowing for effective communication and data-sharing among disparate forces. This technology aims to improve tactical and operational communications, thereby supporting the execution of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. By equipping an MQ-9 with this advanced pod, it will function as a critical link within the Marine Air-Ground Task Force, enabling seamless connectivity between aerial and ground combat elements.
Integration of the SkyTower pod onto the MQ-9 aircraft has already commenced. Following its reception at Pax River, the Air Test and Evaluation (UX) 24 team mounted the system onto the drone for initial power-on checks, marking the beginning of the integration process for this new capability. Additional testing included a fit check conducted in an anechoic chamber, designed to evaluate the pod’s performance and integration with the aircraft. Furthermore, the aircraft was hoisted for the first time in an effort to mitigate risks associated with upcoming program activities.
Capt. Dennis Monagle, the US Navy’s Multi-Mission Tactical UAS program manager, expressed optimism about the program’s progress, stating, “The program is excited to deliver SkyTower II for testing, marking a major milestone in our development journey.” He also emphasized that with robust system and integration testing currently in progress, the program remains on course to achieve initial operating capability by the end of this year, thereby providing critical capabilities to the US Marine Corps and joint forces.
To support the development of the SkyTower II pod, the US Navy selected a team consisting of Global Air Logistics and Training (GALT) and Sierra Nevada Corporation in 2023, signaling a commitment to rapidly advance this unique capability through middle-tier acquisition processes. This collaboration has been fundamental to accelerating innovation and delivering enhanced technology for the warfighter.
After an extensive series of finalized test events scheduled over the next few months, the SkyTower pod is expected to be delivered to the fleet. The first deployment of this new system is set to take place in 2026 with the US Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3, heralding a new era in aerial operations for the Marine Corps.
