Testing

GA-ASI and AeroVironment Complete First-Ever Air Launch of Switchblade 600 from MQ-9A UAS

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GA-ASI and AeroVironment Complete First-Ever Air Launch of Switchblade 600 from MQ-9A UAS
WEB GA-ASI MQ-9A Air Launch AV SB600
  • General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. and AeroVironment collaborated on the air launch of a Switchblade 600 loitering munition (LM) from a GA-ASI Block 5 MQ-9A unmanned aircraft system (UAS). The flight testing took place from July 22-24 at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Grounds Test Range.

It marked the first time a Switchblade 600 has ever been launched from an unmanned aircraft.

“This cooperative effort showcased how combining different unmanned technologies could really provide value and effects to the warfighter,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “By using MQ-9A to carry the Switchblade, the MQ-9A is able to stand off farther from enemy weapons systems and increase the range of the SB600, which will provide greater access and options in contested airspace.”

After successfully integrating the SB600 with the MQ-9A, the team released two LMs: one with an inert warhead and the other with a high-explosive round. After launch, the team transferred control of the Switchblade from a user in the MQ-9A’s ground control station to a user on the ground nearer the operational area.

The test further validated GA-ASI’s ability to integrate and operate a variety of airborne launched effects on the battlefield – including both those built by GA-ASI and by partners such as AV – and how their use in conflict provides risk-tolerant options to commanders in contested operations.

“This successful demonstration is the result of close coordination, technical rigor, and shared commitment across teams,” said Wahid Nawabi, AV Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “We appreciate the strong collaboration with GA-ASI in achieving this integration milestone. The ability to air launch and control Switchblade 600 from the MQ-9A UAS platform via SATCOM highlights the system’s adaptability and operational maturity—reinforcing our commitment to delivering advanced capabilities in direct support of the warfighter.”

Key Highlights from the Event:

  • Seamless Integration: AV’s advanced systems integrated quickly with the MQ-9A Reaper, validating the compatibility and robustness of the technology.
  • Enhanced Operations: The flight tests featured two successful launches, precision targeting, and real-time data transmission, including updated guidance, navigation, control systems, and high-performance payload integrations.
  • SATCOM Capabilities: Emphasizing SATCOM for launch, control, and engagement, the event highlighted reliable over-the-horizon communication and precision targeting for the Switchblade 600.
  • Long-Distance Lethality: The joint launched Switchblade 600 supports multi-domain operations with over-the-horizon lethality from standoff distances. It has the ability to travel beyond 175km when launched from 30,000 MSL with forward pass communication protocol.
  • Improved Armament: The event showcased how existing fielded Switchblade 600 units' capabilities have been enhanced, providing an advanced and powerful new armament for MQ-9s globally.
  • Collaborative Effort: The event underscored the strong partnership between AV and GA-ASI, emphasizing collaborative execution and a joint commitment to advancing unmanned aerial capabilities.
  • Technological Innovation: The successful flight tests reinforced AV’s leadership in delivering advanced, mission-ready UAS solutions for the modern warfighter.
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Sources: AeroVironment;  General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

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