Medium-altitude, long-endurance RPAS with 40+ hr endurance, 6,000+ nm range, 40,000 ft ceiling, and 4,750 lb payload capacity for ISR and strike missions.

# General Atomics MQ-9B SkyGuardian – Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance RPAS

The MQ-9B SkyGuardian is a medium-altitude, long-endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) developed by General Atomics. It is designed to provide persistent Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and strike capabilities with enhanced safety features for integration into civil airspace.

Key Features and Advantages

1. Extended Endurance and Range

SkyGuardian offers over 40 hours of endurance and a range exceeding 6,000 nautical miles (11,112 km), enabling long-duration missions without the need for frequent refueling.

2. High Payload Capacity

Equipped with nine hardpoints (eight wing, one centerline), SkyGuardian has a maximum external payload capacity of 4,750 lb (2,155 kg), allowing for versatile mission configurations.

3. Advanced Sensors and Weapons Integration

The aircraft can carry a variety of sensors and weapons, including Lynx Multi-mode Radar, advanced electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, and precision-guided munitions, enhancing its ISR and strike capabilities.

4. Civil Airspace Integration

SkyGuardian is the world's first RPAS to meet NATO STANAG 4671 airworthiness requirements, featuring lightning protection, a detect-and-avoid system, and automatic takeoff and landing systems, facilitating safe operation in civil airspace.

5. Proven Operational History

Derived from a family of systems with over 8 million flight hours, SkyGuardian has been employed in various operational settings, providing valuable support in both military and humanitarian missions.