GA-ASI and Saab Test MQ-9B Drone with LoyalEye AEW&C Radar

Operational Trials Conducted in California

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and Saab announced the successful trial of the MQ-9B unmanned aircraft system (UAS) integrated with the Saab LoyalEye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) radar. According to the companies' announcement on 28 October 2026, the test took place during a flight at GA-ASI's Desert Horizon Flight Operations Facility in southern California, forming part of an ongoing flight trials campaign that began in May 2026.

Performance and Objectives

The companies reported that the flight test validated the integrated system's performance, specifically its capability to detect, track, and classify airborne targets in real time from an unmanned platform during an operationally representative scenario.

• Platform Persistence: The MQ-9B, known operationally as SkyGuardian for overland use, SeaGuardian for maritime missions, and Protector RG1 in the United Kingdom, features a maximum endurance exceeding 40 hours. This persistent flight capability is considered a key factor for airborne early warning missions.
• System Flexibility: Saab representatives stated that the LoyalEye radar is engineered to complement existing AEW&C solutions by offering increased operational flexibility and endurance.

Official Statements

Carl-Johan Bergholm, head of Saab's Surveillance business area, described the test as an important milestone for unmanned airborne early warning development, noting that the flight confirms the system's performance in a realistic operational context.

GA-ASI President David R. Alexander highlighted strong international customer interest in integrating early warning capabilities onto the MQ-9B platform.

Verification and Further Information

Independent observers and defense analysts can review official announcements directly through General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and Saab corporate communication channels. Detailed technical specifications, flight campaign updates, and verified defense market insights can be accessed via primary defense intelligence publications and manufacturer press releases.