First-Ever Air Launch Of Smaller Loitering Munition From Larger Drone

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and AeroVironment announced their collaboration successfully completed the first-ever air launch of a Switchblade 600 loitering munition system from a Block 5 MQ-9A Reaper UAS and marks the first time a Switchblade has been launched from an unmanned aircraft.

The SB600 was successfully integrated with the MQ-9A and flight testing was conducted from July22-24 at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Grounds Test Range in Arizona.

The team released two of the loitering munitions–one with an inert warhead and one with a high-explosive round. Then, the team transferred control of the Switchblade from a user in the MQ-9A’s ground control station to a user on the ground near the operational area.

David R. Alexander, President of GA-ASI said, “This cooperative effort showcased how combining different unmanned technologies could really provide value and effects to the warfighter. By using MQ-9A to carry the Switchblade, the MQ-9A is able to stand off farther from enemy weapons systems and increase the range of the SB600, which will provide greater access and options in contested airspace.”

The test validated GA-ASI’s ability to integrate and operate different airborne launched effects on the battlefield and how their use in a conflict provides lower risk options to commanders in contested operations.

General Atomics provides long-endurance multi-mission UAS solutions that deliver persistent situational awareness and rapid strike capability.

FMI:  www.ga-asi.com/