SkyGuardian Training At Multiple Sites Finishes At El Mirage

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., announced that the training of the first Belgian Aircrew to operate the MQ-9B SkyGuardian remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) was completed. GA-ASI provided the extensive training at several locations, wrapping up at the company’s Desert Horizon test facility in El Mirage, California.

The training was also conducted partly in Belgium and at GA-ASI’s Flight Test & Training Center in North Dakota.

GA-ASI President David R. Alexander said, “Providing all-encompassing training for the aircrews of our customers goes hand-in-hand with delivering the world’s most capable RPA. Completing this training ensures that Belgium is ready and able to operate their MQ-9Bs and maximize the benefits that come from long-range, high-endurance RPA.”

The training focused on the foundational skills needed to operate the SkyGuardian aircraft and its equipment. The RPA is equipped with a Multi-Spectral Targeting System, Synthetic Aperture Radar, Mission Intelligence Station, and System for Tasking and Real-Time Exploitation.

Training revolves around solid basics for both normal and emergency operations in ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) systems, instrument flying, and Automatic Takeoff and Landing Capability, and more.

The first flight of Belgium’s SkyGuardian took place in February, 2025. That aircraft will soon complete its Acceptance Test Procedures and is expected to be in Belgium by the end of September.

This MQ-9B is the first of a four-unit purchase by the Belgian Ministry of Defense, and the sale also includes two Certified Ground Control Stations.

FMI:  www.ga-asi.com/