General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and AeroVironment have conducted the first air launch of a Switchblade 600 loitering munition from a GA-ASI MQ-9A unmanned aircraft system. The tests were carried out July 22–24 at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Grounds Test Range.
The demonstration marked the first time the Switchblade 600 has been launched from an unmanned aircraft. Two munitions were released during the trial, one with an inert warhead and the other with a high-explosive round. Following release, control of the munitions was handed over from an operator in the MQ-9A’s ground control station to another operator located closer to the operational area.
“This cooperative effort showcased how combining different unmanned technologies could really provide value and effects to the warfighter,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “By using MQ-9A to carry the Switchblade, the MQ-9A is able to stand off farther from enemy weapons systems and increase the range of the SB600, which will provide greater access and options in contested airspace.”
GA-ASI said the test validated its ability to integrate and operate various airborne launched effects, including systems produced in collaboration with partners such as AeroVironment. The company emphasized that these capabilities are intended to offer commanders additional operational options in contested environments.