SAN DIEGO – 10 September 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and AeroVironment (NASDAQ: AVAV) have successfully completed the first-ever air launch of a Switchblade 600 loitering munition (LM) from a GA-ASI Block 5 MQ-9A unmanned aircraft system (UAS). The flight tests were conducted from 22–24 July at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Grounds Test Range.
This milestone marks the initial deployment of the Switchblade 600 from an unmanned aircraft, demonstrating the potential of large UAS to act as motherships for smaller loitering munitions. Two LMs were released during the tests: one equipped with an inert warhead and another with a high-explosive round. After launch, control of the Switchblade was transferred from the MQ-9A’s ground control station to a user closer to the operational area, validating operational flexibility in contested environments.
“This cooperative effort showcased how combining different unmanned technologies could really provide value and effects to the warfighter,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “By using the MQ-9A to carry the Switchblade, the MQ-9A can stand off farther from enemy weapons systems and extend the range of the SB600, providing greater access and options in contested airspace.”
The test further underscores GA-ASI’s capability to integrate a variety of airborne-launched effects from both in-house and partner systems, providing commanders with risk-tolerant options on the modern battlefield.
About GA-ASI
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., is the world’s foremost builder of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Logging more than 8 million flight hours, the Predator® line of UAS has flown for over 30 years and includes MQ-9A Reaper®, MQ-1C Gray Eagle®, MQ-20 Avenger®, and MQ-9B
SOURCE AND IMAGE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI)
