On July 15, 2024, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) operated a company-owned MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) equipped with a PT6 E-Series model turboprop engine supplied by Pratt & Whitney Canada. Representatives from GA-ASI and Pratt & Whitney observed the inaugural flight of the PT6 engine on MQ-9B, which lasted 44 minutes and exhibited great acceleration and handling.
Pratt & Whitney has been providing power to GA-ASI drones for years, with a particular emphasis on the jet-powered Avenger.
The initial flight is a significant milestone for MQ-9B SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian customers and missions that necessitate additional capacity. Furthermore, customers who select the Pratt & Whitney engine will experience reduced sustainment expenses due to the engine’s best-in-class Time Between Overhauls and the availability of over 50 maintenance and overhaul facilities worldwide.
The PT6 E-Series is a dependable and adaptable turboprop engine family that provides significant performance improvements relevant to prospective MQ-9B missions. With a highly mature dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Controller, PT6 provides a 33 percent gain in power compared to the current engine of the MQ-9B.
GA-ASI’s RPA, the MQ-9B, can operate in unsegregated airspace with the assistance of the GA-ASI-developed Detect and Avoid system. It can also auto-takeoff and land under SATCOM-only control and boasts a lengthy endurance and range.
MQ-9B deliveries have commenced for the United Kingdom, and contracts have been signed with Belgium, Canada, Taiwan, and the US Air Force to support the Special Operations Command. MQ-9B is presently in operation by the Japan Coast Guard for maritime operations. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) has also chosen MQ-9B for its Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Trial Operation Project. MQ-9B has also supported various US Navy exercises, such as Group Sail, Integrated Battle Problem, and Northern Edge.
