The Italian Air Force (ItAF) has ordered two additional MQ-9A Block 5 Reaper remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), further expanding its fleet of long-endurance unmanned systems.
The aircraft are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2027. The procurement is being made through a US Foreign Military Sale (FMS) with the US Air Force and includes associated Ground Control Stations.
The latest order strengthens Italy’s long-standing relationship with GA-ASI and reflects the Italian Air Force’s continued reliance on the MQ-9A for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
Italy expands MQ-9A fleet
The two new aircraft will add to the Italian Air Force’s existing MQ-9A fleet, which has been used for a range of ISR operations in Italy, across the Mediterranean and in support of NATO missions.
“Italy has been a very important partner for GA-ASI for more than 20 years,” said David R. Alexander, President of GA-ASI.
He added that the Italian Air Force has remained a leader in operating the MQ-9A for ISR missions in Italy, over the Mediterranean and in support of NATO operations.
The procurement also highlights Italy’s continued investment in persistent airborne surveillance capabilities as it expands its unmanned aviation fleet.
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MQ-9A Block 5 capabilities
The MQ-9A Block 5 is designed for long-duration ISR missions, offering an endurance of up to 26 hours and an operating altitude of up to 45,000 feet (13,716 metres).
The aircraft has a maximum payload capacity of 4,600 pounds (2,087 kg), including up to 3,750 pounds (1,701 kg) of external stores. Its sensor and mission systems support a range of surveillance requirements, including Full-Motion Video, Synthetic Aperture Radar, Moving Target Indicator, and Maritime Radar capabilities.
The platform also features automated take-off and landing, enabling it to conduct missions with reduced operator workload.
Enhanced reliability for persistent ISR
GA-ASI has equipped the MQ-9A Block 5 with a fault-tolerant flight control system and triple-redundant avionics architecture. The aircraft is designed to meet or exceed reliability standards associated with manned aircraft.
These features allow the MQ-9A to conduct extended surveillance missions while maintaining operational availability and reliability.
With the delivery of the two additional aircraft expected by the end of 2027, Italy will further strengthen its ability to conduct persistent ISR missions and contribute unmanned capabilities to NATO operations.
The order also reinforces the long-term partnership between GA-ASI and the Italian Air Force, which has operated the MQ-9A platform for more than two decades.
