The announcement was made by Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support together with NSPA. Germany joins a growing group of NATO countries that have selected the MQ-9B platform for its long range, endurance and multi-domain capabilities.
According to the company, the MQ-9B SeaGuardian provides pole-to-pole satellite control and de-icing capabilities, enabling operations in cold climates. The aircraft is equipped with two multi-mode surface-search radars for wide-area maritime surveillance and can be configured with an option for anti-submarine warfare.
The platform also incorporates an in-house-developed Detect and Avoid System that supports operations in unsegregated civilian airspace, allowing domestic use within Germany. In 2025, MQ-9B became the first large remotely piloted aircraft to receive a Military Type Certificate from the UK’s Military Aviation Authority, permitting operation without geographic restrictions, including over populated areas.
“We’re thrilled that Germany has joined the list of NATO countries that have selected MQ-9B SeaGuardian,” said Linden Blue, chief executive officer of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. “The proliferation of MQ-9B in Europe delivers commonality between NATO countries and for Germany, it will provide opportunities for interoperability with their fleet of P-8As.”
NSPA said the acquisition was negotiated under the MQ-9 Support Partnership, which provides a contractual framework to support cooperation and procurement among allied nations. “This Support Partnership demonstrates how NSPA enables efficient, effective and responsive multinational acquisitions for advanced, interoperable capabilities,” said Ms. Stacy A. Cummings, NSPA general manager, adding, “We are proud to support Germany in this strategic investment for maritime surveillance and security.”
