GA-ASI announced that MQ-9A completed a launch test of a tube-launched loitering munition identified as Switchblade 600, shortly after APKWS integration.
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI) shared a photo of an MQ-9A HALE UCAV launching AeroVironment’s Switchblade 600 medium-range loitering munition from a canister, a month after the announcement of APKWS integration.
Switchblade 600, normally launched from surface platforms, can provide a new stand-off option for MQ-9A with a maximum range of 88+ km, which might be extended with tweaks to flight control to take advantage of the airborne launch at operating speed and higher altitude. The loitering munition with a 15 kg warhead can also double as a scout thanks to onboard gimbal optics.
On the other hand, APKWS integrated a month ago is understood to be intended as a dual-purpose munition for MQ-9 to engage UAVs (As used in this direction many times over the course of past few years) and increase magazine depth for close air support.
For a long time, AGM-114 Hellfire and Paveway laser-guided GPBs have been the main choices of armament for MQ-9A. Recently, moves have been made to add alternative munitions such as the JSM cruise missile and even AIM-9X Sidewinder WVRAAM.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
