Enhanced UAV Adds Open Architecture, Systems Compatibility, Upgrades

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems has launched the newest variant of its Gray Eagle line with the GE-25M, improving on the base model with open architecture, MOSA, and MDO capabilities. 

The 25M is a Modernized Gray Eagle, using updated ground systems, advanced datalinks, and an upgraded propulsion system, that greatly enhance its ability to grow into additional mission portfolios using its Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) and Multi-Domain Operations (MDO)-capable system. The changes enhance survivability while providing additional resilience under electronic threats, all with added performance to bolster operations in austere, hot, and high locales. The first two 25M's began their conversion from GE-ER aircraft earlier this year with an eye towards beginning their flight testing at the start of 2023. 

Like many other recent developments in the GA-ASI uncrewed aircraft roster, the Gray Eagle leans into a bevy of hardware and software improvements that add a range of compatibility with similar products and developments, honing it for a range of Detection, Identification, Location and Reporting (DILR) missions with minimal fuss. The multi-intelligence sensors on the 25M deliver actionable, rapid information to command, allowing quick decisions and accurate assessments. The Gray Eagle plays nice with other assets, too, with built-in teaming capability for Future Vertical Lift (FVL), Air-Launched Effects (ALE), and similarly compatible assets. Just like previous advancements in the product line, the 25M boasts impressive loitering capabilities, building on the previous Gray Eagle-Extended Range (GE-ER)'s 40-hour endurance. As such, General Atomics describes the aircraft as a persistent, reliable "quarterback" in theater, a key communication node in the aerial tier network. 

“GE-25M incorporates MOSA across the aircraft and ground system architectures, which enables rapid integration of advanced payloads and communication equipment, along with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) capabilities,” said GA-ASI Vice President of Army Programs Don Cattell. “This will reduce the sensor-to-shooter timelines, while simultaneously reducing the datalink bandwidth requirements in a contested environment, thus increasing range and resiliency.”

FMI: www.ga.com