MQ-9B SkyGuardian drone receives first US customer

The MQ-9B SkyGuardian drone has once again been in the spotlight. It recently underwent a cold test and then General Atomics announced plans to equip the drone with cruise missiles. Now the MQ-9B has received its first US customer.

Here's What We Know

General Atomics has a contract with Japan and also plans to sell the drone to Belgium and Scandinavian countries. The first US customer for the MQ-9B SkyGuardian is the US Air Force Special Operations Command.

It has been using the MQ-9A Reaper for more than 14 years. The Special Operations Command will now carry the MQ-9B. General Atomics has signed a contract to supply three drones.

David R. Alexander, president of the US company, said the SkyGuardian is an ideal platform for use in potentially hostile environments. The drone provides a combination of endurance, range and minimal maintenance manpower.

Source: Defence Brief