New MQ-9A Block 5 RPA: The new MQ-9A Block 5 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) manufactured by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) was flown for the first time by the Italian Air Force (ItAF). As part of an update to the ItAF’s fleet of RPAs from GA-ASI for Mid-Life Modernization (MLM), the new RPA and a new Mobile Ground Control Station (MGCS) were given to the ItAF. The foreign military sale includes the aircraft and MGCS.
The Block 5 RPA offers the most recent GA-ASI Lynx® Multi-mode Radar version, enhanced landing gear and datalinks for autonomous takeoff and landing, and a notable boost in electrical power generation.
According to Jaime Walters, Vice President of International Strategic Development at GA-ASI, “the Italian Air Force has long been a leader in using the MQ-9 Reaper to support a wide range of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions in Italy, over the Mediterranean, and in support of NATO operations.” “The Italian Air Force’s current fleet will be updated with the arrival of this new Block 5 and MGCS.”
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New MQ-9A Block 5 RPA from GA-ASI
There are now two Block 15 MGCSs and four Block 1 RPAs from GA-ASI in the ItAF’s fleet.
An subsidiary of General Atomics, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is a prominent designer and manufacturer of electro-optic and related mission systems, radars, and tried-and-true RPA systems, such as the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. GA-ASI offers long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems necessary to provide continuous situational awareness, having accumulated over eight million flying hours. In addition, the company creates meta-material antennas, provides pilot training and support, and supplies a range of sensor control/image analysis software.
