General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, also known as GA-ASI, said the tests involved laser-guided rockets launched from a specialized weapons system integrated onto the MQ-9A platform. According to the company, all shots during the demonstration were successfully executed by MQ-9A crews.
The tests were intended to support rapid technological adaptation requirements and moved from planning to flight testing within a shortened timeframe. GA-ASI said the effort also brought together multiple Department of War stakeholders and industry partners to accelerate capability development.
The MQ-9A Reaper is produced by GA-ASI and is widely used for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and strike missions. The company stated that integrating APKWS onto the aircraft could expand its role in countering one-way attack drones and other aerial threats.
David R. Alexander, president of GA-ASI, said, “We recognize the value that a system like APKWS brings to the MQ-9 aircraft as a tool to counter one-way attack drones.”
“APKWS can increase the number of weapons the MQ-9A is able to carry, as well being able to carry new lower cost weapons,” Alexander added. “More than anything, this integration effort underscores how government and industry can collaborate to rapidly test and make new capabilities available to warfighters.”
GA-ASI said the demonstration highlighted the flexibility of the MQ-9A platform and its ability to integrate lower-cost precision-guided weapons. The company added that the use of APKWS could provide operators with additional options for engaging targets while increasing available weapon capacity.
According to the company, the effort reflects ongoing cooperation between the defense industry and the U.S. military to rapidly field adaptable systems for evolving operational requirements.
