GA-ASI and BAE Systems Redefine EW Capabilities on Predator C with Link 16 tech
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On October 31, 2024, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) announced a collaboration with BAE Systems to demonstrate remotely controlled electronic warfare (EW) capabilities on the MQ-20 Avenger unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). This demonstration utilized a secure, jam-resistant Link 16 network, marking a significant advancement in the development of networked autonomous combat systems.The MQ-20 Avenger, also known as Predator C, serves as a test bed for autonomous UAV development and supports the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program.GA-ASI has been selected to produce production-representative flight test articles for this program.
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Equipped with advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems, the Avenger includes electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, the Lynx multi-mode radar, signals intelligence/electronic support measures (SIGINT/ESM) systems (Picture source: GA-ASI)
The MQ-20 Avenger is a reconnaissance and combat drone developed by GA-ASI. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PW545B turbofan engine generating over 5,000 pounds of thrust, it achieves a maximum speed of 400 knots true airspeed (KTAS) and operates at altitudes exceeding 50,000 feet. With a wingspan of 20 meters and a length of 13 meters, the Avenger has a fuel capacity of 3,583 kg, providing an endurance of over 20 hours.Its design includes stealth features, such as an internal weapons bay capable of housing up to 1,588 kg of precision munitions or large sensor payloads, and six external hardpoints for a total payload capacity of 2,948 kg.
Equipped with advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems, the Avenger includes electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, the Lynx multi-mode radar, signals intelligence/electronic support measures (SIGINT/ESM) systems, and communication relays. It is compatible with various guided munitions, including Hellfire missiles and GPS-guided bombs from the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) series. The platform utilizes materials and avionics similar to those of the Predator B, allowing interoperability with existing GA-ASI ground control stations. Its capability to operate at high altitudes and speeds, combined with a low radar signature, makes it valuable for extensive surveillance and precision strike missions in high-threat environments.
The recent demonstration by GA-ASI and BAE Systems represents a notable advancement in developing networked electronic warfare capabilities, potentially accelerating the implementation of electronic attack tactics in complex environments.Conducted at GA-ASI’s Desert Horizon flight operations facility in El Mirage, California, this demonstration is part of an ongoing series of technology integrations and autonomous flights funded through internal research and development. The project aims to test crucial strategic concepts. Mike Atwood, Vice President of Advanced Programs at GA-ASI, stated that this effort tested innovative mission system capabilities and validated the feasibility of autonomous payload control on the MQ-20, highlighting key areas for improvement while sharing investment and reducing associated risks.
For this project, BAE Systems developed customized mission technology, including EW capabilities, a multi-functional processor (MFP), and a Link 16 terminal. The integrated solution was successfully tested in BAE’s System Integration Lab, demonstrating the ability to autonomously detect and jam threats or under operator supervision. The EW system, compliant with the Open Mission System (OMS), uses the MFP for message translation, enabling command and control of the entire system. A secure Link 16 network disseminates this information effectively.
Scott Bailie, Director of Advanced Electronic Warfare Solutions at BAE Systems, emphasized the goal of showcasing the maturity of autonomous EW mission systems in support of U.S. Air Force objectives. He noted that combining proven EW technology with secure command and control solutions, tailored to the needs of CCAs, meets rapid development and integration requirements.
GA-ASI’s MQ-20 Avenger continues to play a crucial role as a test bed for autonomous combat vehicle innovations, meeting the U.S. Air Force’s requirements for networked collaborative missions. In conclusion, this demonstration of remotely controlled electronic warfare capabilities, operated via a secure network, underscores progress toward autonomous electronic warfare operations, paving the way for more flexible and resilient defense operations against modern threats.
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On October 31, 2024, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) announced a collaboration with BAE Systems to demonstrate remotely controlled electronic warfare (EW) capabilities on the MQ-20 Avenger unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). This demonstration utilized a secure, jam-resistant Link 16 network, marking a significant advancement in the development of networked autonomous combat systems.The MQ-20 Avenger, also known as Predator C, serves as a test bed for autonomous UAV development and supports the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program.GA-ASI has been selected to produce production-representative flight test articles for this program.
Equipped with advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems, the Avenger includes electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, the Lynx multi-mode radar, signals intelligence/electronic support measures (SIGINT/ESM) systems (Picture source: GA-ASI)
The MQ-20 Avenger is a reconnaissance and combat drone developed by GA-ASI. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PW545B turbofan engine generating over 5,000 pounds of thrust, it achieves a maximum speed of 400 knots true airspeed (KTAS) and operates at altitudes exceeding 50,000 feet. With a wingspan of 20 meters and a length of 13 meters, the Avenger has a fuel capacity of 3,583 kg, providing an endurance of over 20 hours.Its design includes stealth features, such as an internal weapons bay capable of housing up to 1,588 kg of precision munitions or large sensor payloads, and six external hardpoints for a total payload capacity of 2,948 kg.
Equipped with advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems, the Avenger includes electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, the Lynx multi-mode radar, signals intelligence/electronic support measures (SIGINT/ESM) systems, and communication relays. It is compatible with various guided munitions, including Hellfire missiles and GPS-guided bombs from the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) series. The platform utilizes materials and avionics similar to those of the Predator B, allowing interoperability with existing GA-ASI ground control stations. Its capability to operate at high altitudes and speeds, combined with a low radar signature, makes it valuable for extensive surveillance and precision strike missions in high-threat environments.
The recent demonstration by GA-ASI and BAE Systems represents a notable advancement in developing networked electronic warfare capabilities, potentially accelerating the implementation of electronic attack tactics in complex environments.Conducted at GA-ASI’s Desert Horizon flight operations facility in El Mirage, California, this demonstration is part of an ongoing series of technology integrations and autonomous flights funded through internal research and development. The project aims to test crucial strategic concepts. Mike Atwood, Vice President of Advanced Programs at GA-ASI, stated that this effort tested innovative mission system capabilities and validated the feasibility of autonomous payload control on the MQ-20, highlighting key areas for improvement while sharing investment and reducing associated risks.
For this project, BAE Systems developed customized mission technology, including EW capabilities, a multi-functional processor (MFP), and a Link 16 terminal. The integrated solution was successfully tested in BAE’s System Integration Lab, demonstrating the ability to autonomously detect and jam threats or under operator supervision. The EW system, compliant with the Open Mission System (OMS), uses the MFP for message translation, enabling command and control of the entire system. A secure Link 16 network disseminates this information effectively.
Scott Bailie, Director of Advanced Electronic Warfare Solutions at BAE Systems, emphasized the goal of showcasing the maturity of autonomous EW mission systems in support of U.S. Air Force objectives. He noted that combining proven EW technology with secure command and control solutions, tailored to the needs of CCAs, meets rapid development and integration requirements.
GA-ASI’s MQ-20 Avenger continues to play a crucial role as a test bed for autonomous combat vehicle innovations, meeting the U.S. Air Force’s requirements for networked collaborative missions. In conclusion, this demonstration of remotely controlled electronic warfare capabilities, operated via a secure network, underscores progress toward autonomous electronic warfare operations, paving the way for more flexible and resilient defense operations against modern threats.
