The MQ-9A’s over-the-horizon ISR support for surface units and Indian warships, as well as the platform’s exceptional endurance and operational availability, have impressed the Indian Armed Forces.
MQ-9A, a General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) Remotely Piloted Aircraft on lease to India’s Navy has completed its 10,000th flight hour in support of India’s national security missions. Two MQ-9As operated by the Indian Navy reached 10,000 flight hours in almost exactly two years, with the MQ-9A’s maiden flight taking place on November 21, 2020.
“The Indian Armed Forces have been impressed by the MQ-9A’s over-the-horizon ISR support for surface units and Indian warships, as well as the exceptional endurance and operational availability of the platform,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. “Our MQ-9As have helped the Indian Navy to cover over 14 million square miles of operating area,” he further added.
GA-ASI provides the MQ-9As to India as part of a Company-Owned, Company-Operated (COCO) lease agreement. GA-ASI is the world’s largest manufacturer of RPA systems, radars, and electro-optic and mission system solutions. The United States, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain all have MQ-9As. The UK has purchased GA-newer ASI’s MQ-9B variant, and Belgium has placed an order. The MQ-9B maritime surveillance configuration (SeaGuardian) recently started supporting the Japan Coast Guard.
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General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), a General Atomics subsidiary, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, dependable remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, such as the Predator RPA series and the Lynx Multi-mode Radar. GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent flight that enables situational awareness and rapid strike, with over seven million flight hours. In addition, the company manufactures ground control stations and sensor control/image analysis software, provides pilot training and support, and develops meta-material antennas.
