New MQ-9A Block 5 RPA Armed Drone Spotted in Italian Skies

On November 9th, the Italian Air Force (ItAF) proudly announced the successful maiden flight of their latest acquisition - a brand new MQ-9A Block 5 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) manufactured by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI).

 

 

 

 

This new addition to their fleet was accompanied by a state-of-the-art Mobile Ground Control Station (MGCS), both of which were part of a Mid-Life Modernization (MLM) program aimed at upgrading the ItAF's existing RPAs from GA-ASI. The procurement of these advanced aircraft and equipment was made possible through a Foreign Military Sale.

One of the major upgrades in the Block 5 RPA is its enhanced electrical power generation capability, along with improved auto takeoff and landing features, including upgraded landing gear and datalinks. Additionally, this version also boasts the latest version of the GA-ASI Lynx® Multi-mode Radar, further solidifying its position as a top-of-the-line RPA.

 

According to Jaime Walters, the Vice President of International Strategic Development at GA-ASI, the Italian Air Force has been at the forefront of utilizing the MQ-9 Reaper for various Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) tasks in Italy, across the Mediterranean, and in support of NATO initiatives.

 

The recent acquisition of the new Block 5 and MGCS will play a crucial role in modernizing the ItAF's existing fleet. Currently, their RPA arsenal from GA-ASI includes four Block 1s and two Block 15 MGCSs.

 

 

(With Inputs from GBP)