A fleet of MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) has been ordered from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) per a contract inked by the Canadian government. The order comprises the Certified Ground Control Stations and auxiliary equipment that are affiliated with GA-ASI. The anticipated initial shipment date is 2028.
The SkyGuardian RPAS can seamlessly integrate with existing and forthcoming Canadian defence, civil air, and ground assets. It is also compatible with Canada’s closest allies, including the Five Eyes Alliance (FVEY) and NATO, and its domestic and continental defence missions are coordinated via NORAD.
Linden Blue, CEO of GA-ASI, stated that Canada’s vast territory and complex terrains, including in the Arctic, necessitate a cost-effective multi-mission RPAS solution capable of operating safely in all airspaces, enduring long periods on station, and flying in harsh weather environments. The MQ-9B SkyGuardian provides these essential capabilities.
GA-ASI is collaborating with Team SkyGuardian Canada, a coalition of prominent Canadian companies, including CAE, MDA Ltd., and L3Harris Technologies, on developing, delivering, and maintaining the MQ-9B. GA-ASI has delivered nearly every system with Canadian content throughout its more than three decades in business. This includes sensors, propulsion equipment, training/simulation systems, and services.
The MQ-9B represents an advancement in RPAS technology, featuring good endurance and range, autonomous takeoff and landing under SATCOM-only control, and the capability to function in unsegregated airspace by utilising the Detect and Avoid system developed by GA-ASI. In support of Special Operations Command, contracts have been signed with Belgium and the US Air Force, and initial deliveries of MQ-9B aircraft to the UK Royal Air Force commenced in 2022. Presently, the MQ-9B is being used by the Japan Coast Guard for maritime operations.
Additionally, it was chosen for the Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) RPAS Trial Operation Project by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). In addition, several US Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail, have been supported by MQ-9B aircraft this year.
