Canada Procures MQ-9B SkyGuardian RPAS from GA-ASI

27 Dec, 2023

Canada Procures MQ-9B SkyGuardian RPAS from GA-ASI

Canada has finalized an agreement to procure a fleet of MQ-9B SkyGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. This deal encompasses the purchase of associated Certified Ground Control Stations and support equipment from GA-ASI, with the initial delivery anticipated in 2028.

The MQ-9B SkyGuardian RPAS offers interoperability with Canada’s domestic and continental defense missions, aligning with NORAD and the country’s alliances such as the Five Eyes Alliance and NATO. This seamless integration extends to current and prospective Canadian defense, civil air, and ground assets.

Linden Blue, CEO of GA-ASI, emphasized the suitability of the SkyGuardian RPAS for Canada's expansive and diverse terrains, particularly in challenging environments like the Arctic. Blue highlighted the RPAS's capabilities to endure prolonged periods in station, operate effectively in harsh weather conditions, and navigate all airspaces safely.

The collaboration between GA-ASI and Team SkyGuardian Canada, comprising leading Canadian entities like CAE, MDA Ltd., and L3Harris Technologies, underscores Canada's strategic investment in advancing RPAS technologies. This investment reflects the nation's commitment to fostering domestic interests in cutting-edge RPAS advancements.

The longstanding partnership between GA-ASI and Canadian industries has been marked by continuous growth. GA-ASI's history, spanning over three decades, has consistently involved Canadian contributions, encompassing sensors, propulsion equipment, and training/simulation systems and services. The collaboration between CAE, MDA Ltd., L3Harris, and GA-ASI intends to deliver top-tier RPAS capability to Canada, concurrently generating domestic economic advantages and employment opportunities.

The MQ-9B represents the next phase in RPAS evolution, boasting extended endurance, substantial range, SATCOM-controlled auto takeoff and landing, and the capability to operate in unsegregated airspace via GA-ASI's Detect and Avoid system. With initial deliveries initiated in 2022 to the U.K. Royal Air Force and ongoing contracts with Belgium and the U.S. Air Force, the MQ-9B continues to expand its global footprint.

GA-ASI remains committed to collaborating with Team SkyGuardian Canada to meet Canada's dynamic mission demands. The company underscores its leadership in providing reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable remotely piloted aircraft systems, highlighting their advanced interoperable operations and minimal environmental impact compared to traditional manned systems.