General Atomics has facilitated a “first-of-its-kind” multirole demonstration of its MQ-20 Avenger unmanned aerial system that involved a missile firing on live targets.
The test featured an MQ-20 equipped with government-provided autonomy software to determine the platform’s capabilities in patrol operations, autonomous decision-making, dynamic mid-air maneuvering alongside manned aircraft, and integration with command and control systems.
The drone’s simulated offensive was set to neutralize two aircraft and resulted in a “successful” airborne strike.
During the trial, the MQ-20 was also tested mid-flight to toggle from its government autonomy suite to the Hivemind machine learning autonomous piloting software provided by Shield AI.
The switch was followed by a similar mission set, with the drone performing a seamless transition between integrated hardware and software designed by different vendors.
“This event reflects the kind of interoperability and adaptability we believe is essential for future autonomy efforts,” said Michael Atwood, vice president of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. Advanced Programs.
“Being able to rapidly integrate and test autonomy elements from multiple vendors helps ensure the most effective capabilities are available to the warfighter, regardless of origin.”
The MQ-20 Avenger
General Atomics’ MQ-20 system measures 44 feet (74 meters) long, has a wingspan of 66 feet (20 meters), and has a fuel capacity of 7,900 pounds (3,583 kilograms).
It is fitted with a high-resolution radar, a wide-area survey sensor suite, and powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545B turbofan with about 4,000 horsepower.
The drone is designed with an internal compartment for 3,500 pounds (1,588 kilograms) of weapons and six external hardpoints.
Users can arm the platform with guided and unguided bombs and armor-penetrating missiles, depending on operational requirements.
The MQ-20 can achieve 400 knots (460 miles/741 kilometers per hour), a flight altitude of 50,000 feet (15,240 meters), a range of 1,100 miles (1,770 kilometers), and endurance of over 15 hours.
