In a significant leap for unmanned anti-submarine warfare (ASW), General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and the U.S. Navy have successfully conducted a flight test that doubles the sonobuoy carriage capacity of the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. The December 17th test featured an expanded Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS), dramatically increasing the number of naval sensors the unmanned aircraft can deploy to hunt submarines.
This enhanced capability centers on the integration of advanced Multi-static Active Coherent (MAC) sonobuoy technology, marking the first time such buoys have been dispensed from an uncrewed aircraft. MAC buoys represent a generational improvement, providing superior detection capabilities over vast ocean areas while requiring fewer units than traditional passive and active sonobuoys. During the test, the SeaGuardian also deployed AN/SSQ-36 Bathythermal, AN/SSQ-53G DIFAR (passive), and AN/SSQ-62F DICASS (active) buoys, demonstrating a versatile sensor suite.
“Expanding sonobuoy capacity, including MAC technology for SeaGuardian, has been an integral part of our advanced ASW strategy to broaden and enhance search areas,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “The wider maritime coverage our MQ-9B’s ASW capability provides is extremely valuable to our customers.”
Sponsored by the U.S. Navy and supported by the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) AIRWorks, the flight tests were specifically aimed at certifying the expanded SDS. This effort directly supports the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet’s Operational Evaluation deployment to the SEVENTH Fleet.
Upon completion of data review, the U.S. Navy is expected to grant GA-ASI deployment flight clearance for ASW operations using the MQ-9B SeaGuardian in January 2026. This clearance will formally unlock the platform’s potent, long-endurance ASW capabilities for operational use.
The SeaGuardian is already a proven asset in maritime security, having participated in numerous major U.S. Navy exercises such as Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, RIMPAC, and Group Sail. This latest advancement solidifies its role as a transformative force in persistent, wide-area undersea surveillance.
