General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) and L3Harris Technologies have completed the successful integration of the WESCAM MX-20 Electro-optical/Infrared (EO/IR) system onto a GA-ASI MQ-9 Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) to provide an advanced targeting solution.
A series of test flights began on February 18th to demonstrate the MX-20-equipped MQ-9’s ability to locate and track targets at long stand-off ranges.
“The GA-ASI and L3Harris teams have worked closely over the past year to ensure the successful integration of this sophisticated system,” Linden Blue, CEO, GA-ASI, said. “This is a significant milestone and we look forward to the enduring relationship and growing opportunities with L3Harris WESCAM.”
When integrated onto the MQ-9 Predator B, the WESCAM MX-20 EO/IR system will support Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) and Precision Guided Munitions (PGM) missions.
Field-proven through multiple deployments, the WESCAM MX-20 is equipped with high-sensitivity multi-spectral sensors for day, low-light and nighttime missions. The WESCAM MX-20 operates with 'outstanding detection and recognition capabilities from ultra-high altitudes.'
“L3Harris is proud to partner with GA-ASI to deliver sophisticated technologies for persistent surveillance missions and evolving battlefields,” Jacques Comtois, General Manager, WESCAM, L3Harris, said. “Being a Team SkyGuardian partner allows us to support our technology’s modular growth path with unprecedented levels of innovation and business opportunities globally for leading unmanned aircraft system programs.”