This upgrade may indicate the US Air Force's intention to expand its Reaper fleet with the larger MQ-9B model. The modification suggests a focus on interoperability and flexibility, which could enhance the USAF's unmanned aerial capabilities and may influence future procurement decisions.
General Atomics Modifies Ground Control Station For MQ-9B
General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems Inc. is working on a control system upgrade for the US Reaper fleet, allowing the ground control station to operate both the MQ-9A and MQ-9B models. The modification is expected to start testing by the end of 2026 and may remove a potential obstacle to future MQ-9B acquisitions. The development was announced by General Atomics and reported by Aviation Week.
This upgrade may indicate the US Air Force's intention to expand its Reaper fleet with the larger MQ-9B model. The modification suggests a focus on interoperability and flexibility, which could enhance the USAF's unmanned aerial capabilities and may influence future procurement decisions.
General Atomics Modifies Ground Control Station For MQ-9B
General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems Inc. is working on a control system upgrade for the US Reaper fleet, allowing the ground control station to operate both the MQ-9A and MQ-9B models. The modification is expected to start testing by the end of 2026 and may remove a potential obstacle to future MQ-9B acquisitions. The development was announced by General Atomics and reported by Aviation Week.