MQ-9B SkyGuardian
MALE / UCAV / ISR
The MQ-9B SkyGuardian is a long-endurance MALE-class remotely piloted aircraft system developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. As a more advanced member of the MQ-9 family, it is designed not only for military missions but also for safer integration into civil airspace.
Key features of the SkyGuardian include automatic take-off and landing, beyond-line-of-sight control through SATCOM, de-icing and lightning-protection systems, and Detect and Avoid technology. Compatibility with ADS-B, TCAS and other air-traffic systems supports the aircraft’s operation beyond traditional segregated military airspace.
The platform can be configured for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, precision strike, signals intelligence, airborne early warning and other multi-mission roles. Its nine external stations and modular open-system architecture allow sensors, mission equipment and weapons to be adapted to operational requirements. According to the Plarok database, the MQ-9B SkyGuardian has a maximum speed of 210 knots, an endurance of approximately 40 hours, a payload capacity of 2,177 kilograms and a service ceiling of 40,000 feet.
Systems
- •Airframe (Lightning Protection)
- •Avionics (ADS-B)
- •Civil Airspace Integration
- •Collision Avoidance (Detect and Avoid)
- •Collision Avoidance (TCAS)
- •Communications (BLoS)
- •Data Link (Digital Control / Handover / Relay)
- •De-Ice and Anti-Ice System
- •Detect and Avoid System (DAAS)
- •DO-178 Design-Assured Software
- •DO-254 Design-Assured Avionics
- •Dual SATCOM Command and Control Data Link
- •Dual VHF/UHF-Certified Radios
- •Fatigue and Damage-Tolerant Airframe
- •Honeywell TPE331-10 Turboprop Engine
- •Interoperability (Link 16)
- •Landing System (Fully Autonomous)
- •Open and Modular Payload Mission Management System
- •Payload (AEW Mission Kit)
- •Payload (ASW Mission Kit)
- •Payload (Nine External Stations)
- •Signals Intelligence (SIGINT)
- •STANAG 4671-Compliant Type-Certifiable Design
- •Take-off System (Fully Autonomous)
Sensors
- •AIS (Automatic Identification System)
- •EO/IR Gimbal
- •Radar (Maritime Surveillance)
- •Radar (Due Regard)
- •Radar (Lynx)
Compatible weapons
- •Precision-Guided Munitions