GA-ASI Tests APKWS on MQ-9A Reaper

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), in collaboration with the United States Air Force (USAF), has successfully conducted flight tests of the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) integrated onto the USAF’s MQ-9A Reaper® Remotely Piloted Aircraft, which is manufactured by GA-ASI.

The tests were recently carried out at the Nevada Test and Training Range and demonstrated multiple engagement profiles, including engagements against aerial targets. MQ-9A crews successfully executed all firing sequences using laser-guided rockets integrated through a specialised launcher system.

The demonstration was aimed at supporting rapid operational adaptation requirements, progressing swiftly from planning and system integration to live flight testing. The programme also brought together multiple Department of Defense stakeholders and industry partners to accelerate capability development and operational deployment.

“We recognize the value that a system like APKWS brings to the MQ-9 aircraft as a tool to counter one-way attack drones,” said David R. Alexander, President of GA-ASI. “APKWS can increase the number of weapons the MQ-9A is able to carry, while also enabling the integration of lower-cost precision weapons. More importantly, this effort highlights how government and industry collaboration can rapidly deliver new operational capabilities to the warfighter.”

GA-ASI is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading developers of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). With more than nine million flight hours logged, its Predator® family of platforms has accumulated over three decades of operational experience and includes the MQ-9A Reaper®, MQ-1C Gray Eagle®, MQ-20 Avenger®, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian® systems. The company continues to focus on delivering long-endurance, multi-mission UAS solutions capable of providing persistent situational awareness and rapid precision strike capabilities.