 has announced that it is conducting validation testing of its MQ-9B SkyGuardian drone in cold weather conditions. The company is conducting the tests to ensure that the drone can operate effectively in temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius.){kind=link}
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has announced that it is conducting validation testing of its MQ-9B SkyGuardian drone in cold weather conditions. The company is conducting the tests to ensure that the drone can operate effectively in temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius.
The MQ-9B SkyGuardian is a remotely piloted aircraft system that is used for both military and civilian applications. It is designed to provide persistent, wide-area surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, and is also capable of carrying a variety of payloads for various mission types.
According to GA-ASI, the cold weather testing is being conducted at an undisclosed location in Canada, where temperatures regularly drop below minus 40 degrees Celsius. The tests are being carried out in cooperation with the Canadian government and are expected to last several weeks.
During the testing, GA-ASI will evaluate the drone’s engine performance, battery life, and other critical systems to ensure that they can operate effectively in extremely cold temperatures. The company will also assess the drone’s ability to take off and land in snow and icy conditions.
The MQ-9B SkyGuardian is a key component of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Remotely Piloted Aircraft System program, which is designed to provide the Canadian Armed Forces with enhanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. The drone is also used by a number of other countries around the world.
Once the validation testing is complete, GA-ASI plans to incorporate any necessary design changes to improve the drone’s performance in cold weather conditions. The company expects to deliver the MQ-9B SkyGuardian to its customers later this year.