General Atomics Advances MQ-9B SeaGuardian for US Navy Anti-Submarine Missions
General Atomics is advancing the MQ-9B SeaGuardian drone for anti-submarine warfare, following successful tests with the US Navy that demonstrated its capability to deploy acoustic buoys. The US Navy is expected to authorize the drone for operational use soon, while Germany plans to acquire eight units starting in 2028, with interest also from Japan, India, and Denmark. The MQ-9B family has gained commercial traction in Europe through NATO collaborations.
Theia Market Signal Identification - AI Assisted
On January 13, 2026, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) confirmed the ongoing development of anti-submarine warfare (ASM) capabilities for the MQ-9B SeaGuardian drone, following a test campaign conducted on December 17, 2025, with the US Navy.
The tests demonstrated the SeaGuardian's ability to deploy a variety of acoustic buoys from Sonobuoy Dispensing Systems (SDS) mounted on the drone. The US Navy is expected to authorize GA-ASI to deploy the SeaGuardian for ASM operations in the coming weeks.
The SeaGuardian has already participated in major US Navy exercises and aims to operate alongside P-8 Poseidon aircraft. Germany announced plans to acquire eight MQ-9B SeaGuardians, set for delivery starting in 2028, while other countries like Japan, India, and Denmark are also involved in acquiring the drone. The MQ-9B family has seen commercial success in Europe through NATO cooperation mechanisms.
Comments