MQ-9 unmanned aircraft to undergo modernization for Italian Air Force
NewsMay 27, 2021
SAN DIEGO, Calif. The Italian Air Force has partnered with the U.S. Government and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) to provide a mid-life update to its fleet of MQ-9 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) and Ground Control Stations (GCS) as part of a Foreign Military Sales agreement.
According to officials, the Italian Air Force's Mid-Life Modernization (MLM) Program will include updates to the MQ-9s, which will aim to improve them from Block 1 to Block 5 configuration.
Officials also claim that the Block 5 system includes a significantly increased electrical power capability, improved landing gear, and the latest versions of the GA-ASI Lynx Multi-mode Radar and Raytheon Electro-Optical sensors.
The Italian Air Force utilizes the MQ-9 RPA to support a range of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions over the Mediterranean, and in support of NATO operations. The upgrades to the MQ-9 are intended to enhance these missions and create a more robust sensor system.
