The American robot fighter took off without a pilot - the YFQ—42A is already flying alone

The first flight of the YFQ-42A is not just a test, but a breakthrough

The US Air Force, together with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, has made a breakthrough: the YFQ-42A fighter-robot took to the air for the first time. This was not just the launch of another drone, but the first flight of a fully—fledged autonomous combat vehicle developed under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. Moreover, the transition from blueprints to takeoff took record time — a signal that the Air Force is serious about robotizing the sky.

Now the car begins to learn to fly not just on command, but by itself.

How does a fighter jet work without a crew

The YFQ-42A is not the kind of drone that circles the battlefield with a camera. It is a full-fledged combat aircraft capable of flying at supersonic speeds, maneuvering, carrying weapons and making decisions. It is equipped with artificial intelligence, which allows it to operate in semi-autonomous mode: the pilot on the ground or in an accompanying fighter gives orders, and the drone calculates the trajectory, avoids threats and chooses the moment to attack.

Sometimes he even flies completely on his own — without human intervention.

The US Air Force wants 1,000 of these drones.

The plan is large-scale: The Air Force plans to create a fleet of 1,000 autonomous aircraft. This is not a replacement for the F-35 or F-22 — these are their "partners". Imagine: one pilot controls a whole group of drones that go forward, scout, distract the air defense, and, if necessary, sacrifice themselves to save the manned aircraft.

YFQ-42A is one of the two finalists of the CCA program. The second one is the YQ-44A from Anduril. The winner will receive a serial production contract.

From a companion to an independent fighter

Previously, drones were like servants — they carried out commands. Now they are becoming partners. The YFQ-42A can not only fly in formation, but also make decisions: where to turn, when to attack, how to get away from the missile. It's not fiction — it's already working.

The U.S. Air Force understands that the future belongs to those who can control not just one aircraft, but an entire network. And the YFQ-42A is the first step towards this new war in the sky.

Sources

1. Topwar.ru — progress on loyal wingman CCA for USAF
2. Amalantra.ru — YFQ-42A & YFQ-44A overview
3. Gazeta Metro — first official image & USAF general comments
4. Obozrevatel.com — functional YFQ-42 prototype photos
5. Meta-Défense.fr — comparative analysis YFQ-42A vs YFQ-44A
6. WTFTime.ru — first look at YFQ-42A fighter-UCAV prototype
7. Building-Tech.org — USAF presents first UCAVs able to team with manned aircraft
8. Zhihu — performance & design discussion (CN)

The plane caught the satellite with a laser — and this is not fiction, but a real test for the future army

How a laser beam replaces a radio

Imagine: an airplane in the sky, a satellite in orbit. There are no radio waves between them, but a thin laser beam. In September, such a connection became operational for the first time in a real flight. General Atomics and Kepler Communications conducted tests during which the laser terminal on board the aircraft established and maintained an optical connection with a small satellite in low orbit.

It's not just "getting in touch" — it's the most precise job: catching a pencil—thick ray flying from orbit on a moving plane is like shooting a needle into a needle from a distance of 500 km.

General Atomics and Kepler: Who's behind it

General Atomics is a well—known developer of drones and military systems. This time, they put their optical terminal on the De Havilland Twin Otter, a small twin—engine aircraft that is often used for testing. The terminal was mounted on a 12-inch tower to freely "look" into the sky.

The satellite belongs to the Canadian company Kepler Communications, which is building a network of small devices for global data transmission. It was equipped with an optical terminal from Tesat-Spacecom, the German leader in this field.

Why is this important for the army

Radio communication is reliable, but slow and vulnerable. Laser communication is much faster, almost impossible to intercept and does not interfere. For the army, this means:

• Ultra-fast transmission of video from drones, intelligence, maps.
• Resistance to electronic suppression.
• The ability to work in a dense electromagnetic environment where the radio is "clogged".

The US Space Force is actively working on the PWSA, a distributed network of satellites. The laser connection between them and the planes will make this network alive and reactive.

Catching a ray in the sky — how does it work in general

The terminal on the plane first finds the satellite by coordinates. Then he turns on the tracking system: mirrors and sensors begin to adjust the position in order to keep the beam. When the signal is caught, synchronization takes place, and only then data is exchanged. Even pitching or turning the aircraft should not break the connection.

During the test, the connection was held long enough to transmit data packets in both directions. This is the main success.

Sources

1. Satellite Today — General Atomics & Kepler air-to-space laser-comms demo
2. Yahoo Finance — GA-Kepler optical link success
3. General Atomics — official release on the air-space laser test
4. SatcomRus — laser space comms as a 2025 trend
5. HighTech+ — Stanford study reverses autism symptoms in mice
6. FlightGlobal — Royal Navy’s first Malloy T-150 drone resupply
7. Maritime Executive — ship-to-ship drone deliveries
8. Forces News — HMS Prince of Wales & HMS Dauntless drone flight
9. Naval Technology — Royal Navy drone logistics potential
10. BBC News — official release and video of the Malloy T-150 mission

The US Air Force has confirmed flight tests of the YFQ-42A unmanned fighter prototype

YFQ-42A in the Sky: California Test launch

The US Air Force has officially confirmed that the prototype of the YFQ-42A unmanned combat aircraft has begun a flight test program. The tests are being conducted at a secret test site in California, where flight characteristics, autonomous systems and interaction with manned platforms are being tested. This stage was an important milestone in the implementation of the ambitious Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program.

General Atomics and the US Air Force: joint development

The YFQ-42A was developed by General Atomics, a leading American manufacturer of unmanned systems, known for projects such as the MQ-9 Reaper. The aircraft was created according to the requirements of the US Air Force as part of a strategy to create "friendly drones" (loyal wingmen) capable of escorting and supporting manned fighters in combat.

This is one of two competitive prototypes under CCA — the second, the YQ-44A Fury, was developed by Anduril Industries.

Key data for the CCA program

According to the Air Force, the YFQ-42A has already provided valuable data on:

• The airworthiness of the platform
• The level of management autonomy
• The possibilities of integration with command systems and weapons

These tests allow us to assess how much the drone will be able to act as an "extension" of the pilot, performing reconnaissance, electronic warfare and even strikes without risking the crew.

The future lies in satellite drones and autonomy

The goal of the CCA program is to create a large number of modular, relatively inexpensive unmanned aircraft capable of operating in tandem with fifth-generation fighters (F-35, F-22) and future sixth-generation platforms (NGAD). Such drones will increase the combat zone, reduce the burden on the pilot and increase the survival rate of the group.

It is expected that the final decision on the choice of the platform and the transition to mass production will be made in fiscal year 2026.

American unmanned fighter satellites: launch of flight tests of the CCA program

The YQ-44A and YFQ-42A prototypes are ready for their first flights

According to Pentagon sources, the launch of flight tests under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program is just around the corner. It is expected that at least one, and possibly both, prototypes will take to the air in the coming days — the YQ-44A Fury from Anduril Industries and the YFQ-42A from General Atomics. This will be the official start of the flight test and evaluation phase, which will lay the foundation for future mass production contracts.

A representative of the US Department of Defense said that both vehicles are in the "practical launch readiness" stage, which means the completion of ground checks, system tests and preparations for the first flights. Successful tests will allow the USAF to identify the most promising platform for further development.

The essence of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program

The CCA program aims to create so-called "unmanned fighter satellites" — drones capable of escorting fifth-generation manned fighters such as the F-35 and F-22, and in the future, the sixth generation (NGAD). These unmanned platforms will perform a wide range of tasks, from reconnaissance and electronic warfare to strikes against ground and air targets.

The key feature of CCA is the use of artificial intelligence for autonomous maneuvering and decision—making in combat, while control remains with the pilot operator in the lead aircraft. This makes it possible to significantly expand the combat zone, reduce risks for the crew and increase the overall efficiency of the aviation group.

From testing to mass production

The flight test phase will last for several years and will include testing for endurance, maneuverability, compatibility with manned platforms and resistance to interference. The final decision on the selection of the winner and the conclusion of contracts for mass production is planned to be made in fiscal year 2026.

The first serial production of the CCA is expected to enter service with the US Air Force in the late 2020s and early 2030s. This will be an important stage in the transformation of aviation from a predominantly manned to a hybrid system where man and machine work in close cooperation.

The role of artificial intelligence and the future of manned aviation

The CCA program marks the transition to a new paradigm of aerial combat. Artificial intelligence allows drones to operate in difficult conditions where human reaction may not be fast enough. At the same time, the pilot retains strategic control, delegating tactical tasks to his "unmanned partners."

This approach not only enhances combat capabilities, but also makes aviation more resilient to losses. CCA drones can be used as expendable platforms, allowing you to save valuable manned aircraft and crews.

Denmark has bought powerful American drones to patrol the Arctic

MQ-9B SkyGuardian

Denmark is taking a serious step in strengthening control over its northern borders — the country is purchasing four heavy MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones from the American company General Atomics. These are not just toys: SkyGuardian is one of the most advanced attack and reconnaissance drones in the world, capable of flying for more than 40 hours without refueling and covering vast distances.

Why does Denmark need such machines? The answer is simple — the Arctic. As the ice melts and shipping in the Arctic Ocean increases, the strategic importance of the region increases dramatically. Both Russia and China are increasingly looking there, which means that Denmark, as a country with territory in Greenland and the Faroe Islands, should clearly see what is happening off its coast.

With these drones, Copenhagen will be able to:

- patrol the sea lanes around the clock,

- Track military and civilian vessels,

- monitor the environmental situation,

- promptly respond to emergencies — from rescue missions to interception of violators.

The deal was concluded through the NATO Procurement Agency (NSPA), which simplifies logistics and ensures compatibility with allied systems. SkyGuardian is already used by the United Kingdom, Belgium and other NATO countries, so Denmark is now a member of this "club".

In fact, this is not just the purchase of drones — it is a signal: Denmark assumes greater responsibility for security in the Arctic and is ready to monitor order on its northern borders — from a height and without a pilot.

L3Harris introduces the "Wolf Pack" — swarm drones with low cost and high efficiency

 

Wolf Pack

L3Harris has introduced a new series of unmanned aerial vehicles called the "Wolf Pack", which is designed to attack an enemy using a swarm of inexpensive paired kinetic and non-kinetic ammunition. This approach puts defenders in front of the need to spend more expensive funds to repel relatively cheap threats, which makes the concept economically beneficial.

These munitions fall into the category of so-called "Launched Effects", that is, disposable or returnable aircraft with a long range and low cost. Such systems make it possible to create an "accessible mass", that is, large-scale attacks using a large number of autonomous devices, which significantly increases the efficiency of operations at relatively low costs.

What is included in the "Wolf Pack"?

The series includes two main types:

- Red Wolf is a kinetic munition designed to directly hit targets.

- Green Wolf is a non—kinetic variant that can be used for electronic warfare, reconnaissance, or jamming.

Both types can be launched as a swarm from various platforms, including aircraft, ships, and ground installations. All devices are equipped with autonomous software that allows them to interact with each other and coordinate actions in real time.

L3Harris is not the only company developing such technologies. Similar developments are being conducted by:

- Anduril Industries — with projects such as Altius and other kamikaze drones.

- Lockheed Martin — with systems integrated into fifth-generation combat systems.

- General Atomics — with unmanned solutions based on MQ-9 and other platforms.

- Zone 5 Industries and other lesser-known companies — within the framework of specialized programs .

However, the Wolf Pack stands out for its scalability, low cost, and flexible application, which makes it particularly attractive to military personnel seeking cost-effective solutions on the battlefield.

According to the company's representatives, such systems have already passed flight tests and are capable of operating at a distance of up to 200 nautical miles (~370 km) with high speed and flight duration (up to 60 minutes or more) . This opens up opportunities for the Wolf Pack to be used in various scenarios, including reconnaissance, air defense suppression, sabotage operations, and pinpoint strikes.

The creation of the "Wolf Pack" from L3Harris is an important step in the development of the concept of autonomous swarm systems that change the rules of combat. Due to the combination of low cost, autonomy and high efficiency, such munitions are becoming a key element of the future of the US armed forces and their allies.

MQ-9 Reaper: an American drone that strikes and spies

MQ—9 Reaper

One of the most famous military drones in the world is the MQ—9 Reaper, or "Reaper" in our language. This is not just a drone, but a whole flying complex for reconnaissance and strike. It was developed by the American company General Atomics, and since then it has become the basis of the strike fleet in many countries.

What's inside?

This is a serious machine: the take—off weight is almost 4.7 tons, the payload is up to 1,700 kg of combat cargo. It flies for a long time — from 14 hours with a weapon, and if without it, then up to 30 hours (this is a version called "Altair") .  

His speed is decent — up to 480 km/ h, but usually flies at  280-300 km / h. The height depends on the modification: the Altair can climb up to 15 km, and the combat Reaper — up to 8 km.  

The engine is a 776 hp Honeywell TPE331, which allows it to be both fast and maneuverable. The cost of such a miracle is about $30 million apiece.

How is it managed?

The UAV takes off from a regular runway. It is operated by a two-person crew: a pilot and a system operator. During takeoff and landing, everything is done manually, and then the autopilot turns on, which receives commands via satellites from Creech Air Force Base in Nevada.

However, the signal is delayed by about 1.5 seconds, but this is normal for such distances. The control is carried out using the Block 50 GCS station, where you can fully transfer control of the car to the pilot, and the operator can only shoot.

An interesting fact: the ability to fully "transfer control" was first used back in 2019, as in a real flight simulator.

Armed with what?

The "Reaper" can carry:

- AN/AAS-52 multispectral camera— sees both day and night, and even highlights targets with a laser.

- Lynx II radar — maps the area and detects targets on the ground.

- Protection systems: warns of enemy radars and launches false targets (MALD).

- AGM-114 Hellfire missiles are precise weapons against armored vehicles and manpower.

- Paveway, JDAM and GBU-12/38 bombs — high accuracy and minimal damage to the surroundings.

- Even AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles can work on aerial targets.

How is it applied?

The MQ-9 was actively used in Afghanistan and Iraq, monitored sea pirates in the Indian Ocean, and also patrolled the US border with Mexico. Currently, the drone is in service not only with the United States, but also with Great Britain, the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Turkey, France and even Japan.

By the way, NASA also uses this device, but not for war, but for scientific research. So the Reaper is not only a killer, but also a scientist.

How to deliver and use?

The drone is transported on large C-17A transporters, and it can be deployed in just 8 hours — to organize a control center, prepare a place and send it into the air. That is, mobility is at an altitude.

In general, the MQ-9 Reaper is one of the most versatile and combat—ready drones in the world. He can scout, hit accurately, and work remotely. No wonder he's so loved all over the world.

New PELE drones increase the range of the MQ-9B to 926 km

PELE drone

The American company GA-ASI, known for its powerful drones, has introduced a new toy for military needs — the semi-autonomous small PELE drone. Its main task is to help larger and more valuable UAVs like the MQ-9B SkyGuardian not go directly into dangerous areas, but work through an intermediary.

This baby PELE is like a mini scout that can be launched directly from the air, from the parent drone. That is, the MQ-9B can approach the border of the conflict zone from international waters, release several pieces of PELE, and then monitor the situation remotely. This reduces the risk of losing expensive equipment and at the same time expands the exploration area.

PELE Characteristic

- Length — 2.74 m  

- Wingspan — 3.35 m  

- Weight — 113.4 kg  

- Engine power — 16 hp

. - Flight time — up to 7 hours  

- Range — more than 926 km 

For such a compact device, these are quite serious indicators. It can withstand loads like a real combat drone, and at the same time remains modular — that is, it can be quickly adapted to different tasks.

GA-ASI, the company that made this device, says that PELE is designed specifically to work in high—risk environments where conventional drones may simply not survive. At the same time, it retains the stability and survivability inherent in much larger systems.  

By the way, while the United States is experimenting with such technologies, Chinese engineers are also not sitting idly by. They recently found a way to improve the aerodynamics of high-altitude drones using plasma excitation technology. In simple words, they learned how to control the flow of air around the wing using electricity. As a result, the aerodynamic quality of the drones increased by almost 90%, and the lifting force remained even at low speeds.

In general, the future of aviation is getting closer and closer — and it clearly belongs to autonomous, modular and smart drones of the new generation.

MQ-20 Avenger: Successful autonomous control test with Hivemind program

 During the second test of the MQ-20 Avenger with Shield AI autonomous control software, the UAV performed more complex missions with both real and virtual aircraft.

The "first of its kind" test of the MQ-20 Avenger from General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems, Inc (GA-ASI) using the Hivemind autonomy program from Shield AI, conducted on June 11, 2025, showed that the unmanned combat aircraft (UCAV) performed an "autonomous shooting simulation.

"During this second trial, GA-ASI mentioned, that the MQ-20 Avenger was part of an "exercise involving multiple real and virtual aircraft," and Shield AI added that a UCAV digital twin was also involved.

 MQ-20 Avenger

General Atomics is developing the GHOST hybrid electric attack and reconnaissance drone for the US Air Force

GHOST

General Atomics has received a nearly $100 million contract from the United States Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to develop an innovative hybrid-electric strike and reconnaissance drone called GHOST. This project represents the creation of a new generation of ducted-fan unmanned aerial system that combines intelligence, surveillance, and strike capabilities.

GHOST is a hybrid-electric propulsion system, which means using a combined energy source to increase efficiency and reduce the visibility of the device. This technology makes it possible to significantly increase flight time, reduce thermal and acoustic radiation, which makes the drone inconspicuous and effective in modern warfare.

GHOST's main tasks include intelligence gathering, battlefield surveillance, and targeted strikes, making it a versatile tool for the U.S. Air Force. The use of hybrid electric propulsion opens up new opportunities for improving the survival and efficiency of drones in difficult counteraction conditions.

The contract with General Atomics reflects the commitment of the US Air Force to introduce advanced technologies in the field of unmanned systems, allowing it to maintain technological superiority and adapt to the new challenges of modern combat space.

General Atomics presents the "brain" of the future combat drone: meet the Quadratix

  

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems has unveiled its new software platform Quadratix, which will become the central control element for unmanned fighter aircraft in the framework of promising military programs, including the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. This system is positioned as a universal "brain" for drones — a multifunctional platform capable of managing missions, processing data and ensuring interaction in complex networks.

Quadratix is compared to Adobe Suite for Combat Operations: it combines various software solutions developed earlier within the company into a single integrated system. This approach makes it possible to significantly improve the control efficiency of unmanned aerial vehicles, especially in conditions of high saturation of the information space and counteraction from the enemy.

The creation of Quadratix was made possible by more than 30 years of General Atomics experience in the field of operation and development of unmanned systems, including the legendary MQ-9 Reaper, which is used worldwide in various operations — from reconnaissance to strike missions. Now this experience has formed the basis of a new generation of autonomous aircraft controlled through a single software.

During the development, special attention was paid to scalability and the open architecture of the system, which allows integrating new technologies and algorithms as they become available. This makes Quadratix not just a management platform, but a flexible and adaptable solution for future combat missions.

Thus, Quadratix marks an important step forward in the creation of autonomous aerial systems that can operate both independently and in close cooperation with manned aircraft, forming a new era in military aviation.

The United States has unveiled the first officially designated unmanned fighter aircraft: the beginning of a new era in combat aviation

 The US Air Force has officially unveiled the first-of-its-kind unmanned fighter aircraft as part of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program — a new revolutionary initiative aimed at integrating autonomous technologies into combat aircraft. Two models were presented as part of this program: YFQ-42A, developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, and YFQ-44A, created by startup Anduril Industries.

These drones will become key partners for next-generation manned aircraft, such as the advanced fighter jet Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD). The main goal of the CCA program is to create autonomous aerial platforms capable of interacting with manned aircraft in real time, providing superiority in intelligence, strike operations and electronic warfare.

Special attention is paid to the level of autonomy: the new drones will have the ability to make decisions in conditions of high uncertainty and counteraction, which is especially important in modern conflicts using fifth-generation technologies. This approach can significantly reduce the risks for the crews and at the same time increase the effectiveness of combat operations.

The CCA program is part of a broader modernization strategy for the U.S. Air Force, envisioning a transition to hybrid systems where man and machine work together. This marks a new stage in the development of military aviation, where the decisive factor is not only speed and armament, but also the ability to adapt, learn and function autonomously in difficult conditions.

The US Air Force begins ground testing of autonomous combat aircraft CCA

 

YFQ-44

On May 1, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Air Force announced the start of ground testing of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, which was an important step in integrating autonomous systems into the future structure of combat forces. The program, which is a key element of the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) initiative, has moved into the testing phase of the first two production prototypes: the YFQ-42A from General Atomics and the YFQ-44A from Anduril Industries. At the same time, the Air Force identified Beale Air Force Base in California as the preferred location for the First Aircraft Readiness Unit (ARU) dedicated to operating the CCA fleet.

The CCA program is aimed at creating autonomous combat aircraft that can operate in conjunction with manned aircraft. These systems are designed to enhance the capabilities of the U.S. Air Force by increasing the efficiency of complex missions, reducing risks for pilots, and increasing the flexibility of military operations. 

Ground tests of the YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A will test their functionality, reliability, and ability to interact with other platforms. This is a key stage before the start of flight tests and subsequent deployment to combat units.

The CCA program is an integral part of the larger Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) initiative, which includes the development of new technologies to ensure U.S. air superiority. CCA autonomous systems will work in tandem with next-generation manned fighter aircraft, forming a network-centric architecture where each element fulfills its unique role.

The YFQ-42A from General Atomics and the YFQ-44A from Anduril Industries represent two different approaches to solving autonomous combat tasks. The former focuses on high endurance and reconnaissance capabilities, while the latter focuses on maneuverability and striking capabilities. Both prototypes are undergoing rigorous testing to determine their potential in real combat conditions.

The U.S. Air Force has selected Beale Air Force Base in California as the location for the first Aircraft Readiness Unit (ARU), which will specialize in operating CCA autonomous combat aircraft. This decision is due to the strategic location of the base, modern infrastructure and the availability of the necessary resources to support the latest technologies.

The Beale Airbase will become a training center for personnel who will work with autonomous systems. Further testing and refinement of technologies will also be carried out here to ensure their full combat readiness.

The successful implementation of the CCA program can be a revolutionary step in the development of military aviation. Autonomous combat aircraft will allow the U.S. Air Force to maintain its leadership in technology and tactical superiority. They will be able to perform a wide range of tasks, including reconnaissance, strikes and protection of manned aircraft from enemy threats.

However, the introduction of such systems also raises questions about security, the ethics of using autonomous systems, and their impact on international security. Experts emphasize that it is important to develop clear rules for the use of these technologies in order to minimize the risks of conflict escalation.

General Atomics confirms the development of an aerial laser for MQ-9 drones

General Atomics has officially confirmed the existence of a new program aimed at creating airborne laser weapons for MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicles. The program was presented at the Sea Air Space 2025 exhibition and is part of a joint initiative of the US Department of Defense. Its goal is to equip the MQ-9 fleet, which is in service with the US Air Force and Marine Corps, with advanced laser weapons.

The MQ-9 Reaper has long established itself as a reliable drone capable of performing surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions. However, the integration of on-board laser weapons can significantly expand its capabilities. Laser weapons will allow drones to effectively destroy air and ground targets with high accuracy and minimal resource expenditure.

The program is aimed at developing compact and powerful laser systems that can be installed on the MQ-9 without significant design changes. This will make it possible to use drones to counter enemy drones, destroy lightly armored vehicles, and even protect against missile attacks.

Onboard lasers have a number of advantages over traditional weapons. They provide almost instant destruction of targets, do not require ammunition and can be used repeatedly. In addition, laser weapons reduce the risk of collateral damage, as they allow precise focus on specific objects.

For the US Air Force and Marine Corps, the introduction of this technology will be an important step in modernizing their fleet. Drones with laser weapons will be able to perform tasks that were previously unavailable for standard weapons systems.

The development of airborne laser weapons for the MQ-9 reflects the United States' desire to maintain technological leadership in the field of weapons. In the face of the growing threat from drones and other high-tech enemy assets, lasers are becoming a key element of modern defense.

The successful implementation of the program could set a precedent for equipping other types of aircraft, including fighter jets and transport aircraft, with laser weapons. It also demonstrates the Pentagon's willingness to invest in innovative solutions to counter future threats.

Despite the promising prospects, the program faces a number of technical and financial challenges. The main issues remain the energy efficiency of lasers, their weight, and their ability to operate in various weather conditions. However, the success of General Atomics in developing similar systems such as HELIOS (High-Energy Laser with Integrated Optical dazzler and Surveillance) is encouraging.

The completion of the program and the start of deliveries of laser weapons for the MQ-9 is expected in the coming years. This event may become a turning point in the development of unmanned technologies and change the rules of modern warfare.

General Atomics introduces new laser for MQ-9B

 General Atomics is moving forward with the introduction of several new technologies at Sea Air Space 2025, including the new MQ-9B outboard laser system, which was first introduced.

The new onboard laser module, presented in detail at the Sea Air Space exhibition, is positioned as a solution to protect the fleet from unilateral attacking drones. This capability differs from previous efforts by the Ministry of Defense to install lasers on aircraft.

The new laser is part of the General Atomics Laser Weapon Systems portfolio, centered around the scalable High Energy Laser (HEL) Weapon System. The laser belongs to the 25 kW class and can be scaled up to 300 kW in both pulsed and continuous wave systems capable of operating under any conditions.

MQ-9B with onboard laser

General Atomics and Rafael team up to produce long-range Bullseye missile

The Bullseye rocket

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) has announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Israeli defense contractor Rafael for the production of a new long-range, high-precision Bullseye attack missile in the United States.

The Bullseye rocket will be capable of launching from the air, land and sea. It will use a design similar to that used in the Rafael Ice Breaker rocket. GA-EMS will become the main contractor for the production of a missile that will meet the specifications of the US Armed Forces and provide launch capabilities from various platforms to effectively hit targets at long range.

Bullseye is at Technology Readiness Level 8 (TRL 8), which means that the technology in the rocket has already been tested in practice. The rocket will be equipped with a very low observable (VLO) and integrated systems for control and navigation. This will allow Bullseye to provide high accuracy of hitting targets in various conditions.

Cooperation between GA-EMS and Rafael within the Bullseye project will reduce the risks and costs of development, as well as ensure the mass production of high-performance rockets with significant savings per unit. The Bullseye missiles will be manufactured at the GA-EMS plant in Tupelo, Mississippi, which specializes in manufacturing complex systems for U.S. national security.

Hanwha and General Atomics team up to develop unmanned systems

 Hanwha Aerospace, the largest South Korean defense company, has entered into a partnership with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) to develop and jointly manufacture unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for the global defense market. 

Hanwha will jointly produce the MQ-1C Gray Eagle STOL (short takeoff and landing) unmanned aerial vehicle in South Korea and invest 511 million US dollars (750 billion Korean won) in the development and production of engines for Gray Eagle STOL aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, creating a research and development, development and production infrastructure in the country.

MQ-1C Gray Eagle STOL

General Atomics is testing a satellite control system for drones in the Arctic

 Unmanned aerial vehicle manufacturer General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) is testing a new satellite control system that could allow the company's remotely piloted and autonomous aircraft to operate in the high latitudes of the Arctic.

On March 12, General Atomics announced the completion of two test flights of the Grey Eagle Extended Range (GE-ER), an improved version of the MQ-1C multi-purpose long-range UAV controlled by a constellation of small communications satellites.

Known as the Proliferated Low Earth Orbit (PLEO) network, The system uses a large number of small satellites, rather than a smaller group of more powerful ones, to create a permanent communications network around the world. This technology has been widely used by SpaceX in the Starlink system.

MQ-1C