General Atomics prepares large-scale deal with Saudi Arabia for MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones
General Atomics plans to offer Saudi Arabia a package deal for the supply of MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones. This was announced by the company's executives during the IDEX arms exhibition in Abu Dhabi.
Here's What We Know
According to General Atomics Aeronautical Systems President Dave Alexander, the negotiations are in the early stages, but Saudi Arabia's interest in the MQ-9B is significant. He noted that the deal could create thousands of jobs in the US if the sale goes through.
The exact number of drones and other details of the deal have not yet been disclosed, but the offer includes "a large number of aircraft" and involves local production in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia has previously purchased drones from China and Turkey. In 2014, the country purchased Chinese CH-4s, and later Wing Loong IIs. In 2023, Riyadh signed the largest defence deal between the two countries with the Turkish company Baykar, purchasing Akinci attack drones.
An MQ-9B UAV during a test flight. Illustration: General Atomics
There is frustration in the Gulf over delays in the delivery of US weapons caused by US export controls. For example, in 2021, Qatar faced several delays in the delivery of MQ-9Bs without explanation from Washington.
Alexander expressed optimism about changes in US policy following the possible return of Donald Trump to the White House. In his opinion, the new administration will speed up defence deals with allies in the region and remove unnecessary restrictions.
He also expects Trump to resume negotiations on the sale of MQ-9B SeaGuardian to the United Arab Emirates. A previous deal to supply 18 drones, which started in 2020, was blocked due to Washington's concerns about the UAE's use of Chinese technology. The General Atomics proposal remains separate from possible deals with Lockheed Martin for fighter jets.
Source: Defence News