MQ-9B Recon and Strike Drone to Become AEW&C Aircraft

Saab and General Atomics will jointly develop a promising long-range radar detection aircraft based on the MQ-9B SkyGuardian reconnaissance and strike drone.

This was announced by Saab’s press service.

At the Paris Air Show, the companies announced a strategic partnership under which Saab will integrate its proven radar sensor technology into a module that will be installed on General Atomics’ MQ-9B drone.

Details of the sensor package have not yet been disclosed, but from the concept images, it can be assumed that the radar equipment and associated equipment will be housed in pods under the centerline and both wings.

It is known that the system is designed to provide long-range detection of airborne objects and their simultaneous tracking. The data obtained will be managed by a team of operators on the ground via a military satellite communications network.

According to company representatives, the first flight tests of the new system are scheduled for 2026.

The MQ-9B SkyGuardian is an unmanned reconnaissance and strike system capable of staying in the air for over 40 hours in all weather conditions. In addition to promising systems, it also carries a powerful optical station that will complement the system’s capabilities.

The partners are positioning this development as a budget alternative to expensive manned long-range radar detection aircraft such as the E-2 Hawkeye or Saab GlobalEye.

Given the growing threats from cruise missiles and drones, the new system is intended to provide countries with limited defense budgets with an effective solution for enhancing situational awareness and early warning.

“High-tech and low-tech air threats pose serious challenges to global air forces. We are developing an affordable solution that will transform our customers’ operations against cruise missiles and simple but dangerous swarms of drones,” said David Alexander, president of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems.

According to the head of Saab’s Surveillance division, the system can be used autonomously or as part of a concept for joint operations between manned and unmanned platforms.

This project is also in line with current trends in defense — the gradual transition from traditional manned solutions to unmanned platforms that are more survivable and cheaper to operate.