The goal of the program has been to explore how an unmanned aircraft capable of firing air-to-air missiles could extend the reach and reduce the vulnerability of the launch platform, among other benefits.
Founded in 1951 in Vienna, the globally operating Schiebel Group has built an international reputation for producing high-tech military, commercial and humanitarian products, which are backed by exceptional after-sales service and support.
Traditional, long-range interceptor missiles are no longer cost-effective as adversaries deploy low-cost, expendable technologies in large quantities. Cannon-Based Air Defence provides an affordable, layered terminal defence with scalable manufacturing base and simplified logistics footprint.
MQ-9Bs could launch from a number of friendly bases in the Western or Southern Pacific, fly to a hold point and loiter there outside a hostile power’s weapons engagement zone. The aircraft could launch its weapons in coordination with other U.S. or allied operations
Joint team will complete preliminary design of the GEK1500 engine to meet high performance and aggressive cost targets, leveraging GEK800 maturation to accelerate delivery.