General Atomics and Lockheed Martin are collaborating to equip the MQ-9B SeaGuardian unmanned aerial system with a network-enabled weapons (NEW) capability.
The addition will enhance the aircraft’s long-range precision targeting, particularly against moving targets.
As part of the process, a mechanism is being developed to let the Link 16 data link system communicate with inflight weapons in preparation for an overwater range test flight.
Initial testing was done with FA-18s on the US Navy’s W-289 test range in Southern California.
Network-Enabled Weapon
A Link 16 controlled weapon offers greater accuracy, in-flight adjustment, retargeting, battle damage assessment, and abort functions.
Additionally, it continuously updates its location and status during a mission, enhancing situational awareness.
“This is a very important system attribute for SeaGuardian to enable naval long-range targeting CONOPS (concept of operations) against high-end threats at much less risk to manned platforms,” GA-ASI President David R. Alexander said.
“We appreciate Lockheed Martin’s support in helping us prove out the NEW technology, which is an important component of our ISR&T capability.”
