Latest news with #MQ-9BSeaGuardian
Arabian Post
25-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Washington Eyes $100 Billion Arms Deal with Riyadh Amid Strategic Realignments
The United States is preparing to offer Saudi Arabia an arms package exceeding $100 billion, potentially to be announced during President Donald Trump's upcoming visit to the kingdom in May. This proposal follows a failed attempt by the Biden administration to finalize a defense pact with Riyadh, which included conditions aimed at curtailing Chinese arms acquisitions and investments. Under Trump's leadership, U.S.-Saudi defense ties are reportedly stronger, with the deal involving major contractors such as Lockheed Martin, RTX Corp, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and General Atomics. Equipment under consideration includes C-130 transport aircraft, missiles, radars, and MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones. The proposed deal underscores a significant shift from the Biden administration's approach, which sought to intertwine arms sales with broader geopolitical objectives, including the normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. Biden's strategy involved offering advanced U.S. weaponry in exchange for Riyadh halting Chinese arms purchases and limiting Beijing's investments in the kingdom. However, these negotiations did not culminate in a finalized agreement. In contrast, the Trump administration's forthcoming proposal appears to prioritize strengthening bilateral defense ties without the conditionalities previously emphasized. This approach reflects a broader realignment in U.S. foreign policy, focusing on direct strategic partnerships and countering the influence of rival powers in the region. The arms package, while substantial, is reminiscent of the 2017 agreement during Trump's first term, which was touted as a $110 billion deal but saw only a fraction materialize. Critics argue that such deals often fall short of their announced value and raise concerns about the implications for regional stability and human rights. Congressional approval remains a requisite for the finalization of the deal, and it is anticipated that lawmakers will scrutinize the proposal, especially in light of ongoing debates about U.S. involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts and the ethical considerations of arms sales to nations with contentious human rights records.
Indian Express
25-04-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Trump to offer Saudi Arabia $100 billion arms deal during May visit: Reports
The Trump administration is preparing to unveil an arms deal with Saudi Arabia worth more than $100 billion during his visit to Riyadh in May, according to six sources familiar with the matter. The deal, which involves several top US defense contractors, comes amid growing competition with China and a continued effort by the US to bolster its influence in the Gulf. Among the major players involved in the deal are Lockheed Martin, RTX Corp (formerly Raytheon Technologies), Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and General Atomics. These companies are set to supply a range of advanced military systems, including transport aircraft, missiles, and radar technology. A US Defense Department official emphasized the importance of the relationship with Saudi Arabia, saying: Our defense relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is stronger than ever under President Trump's leadership. Maintaining our security cooperation remains an important component of this partnership, and we will continue to work with Saudi Arabia to address their defense needs. The role of defense giants Lockheed Martin is expected to play a key role in supplying C-130 transport aircraft, as well as missiles and radars. RTX, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and General Atomics are also expected to provide their own offerings, with General Atomics' MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones likely to be among the most significant items. Discussions on the drone deal have been ongoing for several years, with one source noting that the request for these drones dates back to 2018. While Lockheed Martin confirmed that all foreign military sales are conducted through government-to-government transactions, questions regarding specific arms packages for Saudi Arabia were directed to the US government. Biden's efforts This proposed arms deal comes after the former Biden administration's attempt to negotiate a broader defense agreement with Saudi Arabia fell through. The original Biden plan tied access to advanced US weaponry to Saudi Arabia's agreement to limit Chinese arms purchases and investment. It remains unclear whether the Trump administration's package will include any similar stipulations. As is required by US law, major international arms deals must undergo congressional review before they are finalized. Previous arms agreements with Saudi Arabia have encountered significant hurdles. The US Congress has been particularly critical of such deals in light of the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Yemen. In response to these concerns, Congress passed a ban on the sale of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia in 2021. However, this ban was lifted in 2024, as the US recalibrated its stance on Saudi Arabia in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the growing need for closer cooperation with the kingdom on energy and security issues. F-35 talks may resurface One of the more high-profile items that could come up for discussion during the visit is Saudi Arabia's long-standing interest in acquiring Lockheed's F-35 fighter jets. However, sources indicate that while this deal may be brought up, it is unlikely to be finalized during Trump's visit. Several defense executives are reportedly considering joining Trump's delegation to Riyadh.
Globe and Mail
25-02-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
GA-ASI Advances Sub-Hunting With Test of New Air-Dropped Sensors
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / February 25, 2025 / General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) continues to expand the role of unmanned aerial systems, demonstrating the first-ever Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capability on an MQ-9B SeaGuardian ®. In a groundbreaking test from January 20-30, 2025, a company-operated MQ-9B SeaGuardian successfully deployed and tested anti-submarine sensors using multiple pre-production Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS) pods. Having already proven its ability to track submerged targets, SeaGuardian took this capability further with GA-ASI's newly designed SDS pods. These pods deployed multiple sonobuoys to conduct onboard thermal-depth and acoustic data processing. Using Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording (DIFAR), Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS), and Bathythermograph sonobuoys, SeaGuardian effectively detected, tracked, and analyzed underwater targets while collecting critical acoustic intelligence. "This demonstration represents a major leap forward in unmanned capabilities and marks a major milestone in proving that an unmanned aircraft can perform end-to-end persistent ASW operations," said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. "The success of this testing paves the way for enhanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities on the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. We look forward to continued collaboration with the U.S. Navy as they explore innovative solutions for distributed maritime operations in the undersea domain." As part of the development process, GA-ASI successfully deployed multiple DIFAR and DICASS test sonobuoys, precisely correlating ejection speed with stress/strain data. This provided a high-fidelity launch model to refine future deployment capabilities. Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) AIRWorks played a key role in supporting and overseeing the development, ensuring the system meets emerging warfighter needs. AIRWorks has partnered with GA-ASI in multiple ASW demonstrations, including the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise in July 2024. With strong demand already in place from multiple customers, GA-ASI anticipates increasing interest in the MQ-9B SeaGuardian, given its high-end maritime capabilities at a significantly lower cost than traditional manned maritime platforms. About GA-ASI General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable RPA systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator ® RPA series and the Lynx ® Multi-mode Radar. With more than eight million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness. The company also produces a variety of sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas. For more information, visit Avenger, Gray Eagle, Lynx, Predator, Reaper, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., registered in the United States and/or other countries. # # # Contact Information View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
Miami Herald
25-02-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
GA-ASI Advances Sub-Hunting With Test of New Air-Dropped Sensors
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / February 25, 2025 / General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) continues to expand the role of unmanned aerial systems, demonstrating the first-ever Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capability on an MQ-9B SeaGuardian®. In a groundbreaking test from January 20-30, 2025, a company-operated MQ-9B SeaGuardian successfully deployed and tested anti-submarine sensors using multiple pre-production Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS) pods. Having already proven its ability to track submerged targets, SeaGuardian took this capability further with GA-ASI's newly designed SDS pods. These pods deployed multiple sonobuoys to conduct onboard thermal-depth and acoustic data processing. Using Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording (DIFAR), Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS), and Bathythermograph sonobuoys, SeaGuardian effectively detected, tracked, and analyzed underwater targets while collecting critical acoustic intelligence. "This demonstration represents a major leap forward in unmanned capabilities and marks a major milestone in proving that an unmanned aircraft can perform end-to-end persistent ASW operations," said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. "The success of this testing paves the way for enhanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities on the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. We look forward to continued collaboration with the U.S. Navy as they explore innovative solutions for distributed maritime operations in the undersea domain." As part of the development process, GA-ASI successfully deployed multiple DIFAR and DICASS test sonobuoys, precisely correlating ejection speed with stress/strain data. This provided a high-fidelity launch model to refine future deployment capabilities. Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) AIRWorks played a key role in supporting and overseeing the development, ensuring the system meets emerging warfighter needs. AIRWorks has partnered with GA-ASI in multiple ASW demonstrations, including the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise in July 2024. With strong demand already in place from multiple customers, GA-ASI anticipates increasing interest in the MQ-9B SeaGuardian, given its high-end maritime capabilities at a significantly lower cost than traditional manned maritime platforms. About GA-ASI General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable RPA systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. With more than eight million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness. The company also produces a variety of sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas. For more information, visit Avenger, Gray Eagle, Lynx, Predator, Reaper, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., registered in the United States and/or other countries. # # # Contact Information GA-ASI Media Relations asi-mediarelations@ SOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. press release
Yahoo
19-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
General Atomics eyes ‘huge' MQ-9 sale to Saudi Arabia
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates —General Atomics is preparing to offer a package deal to Saudi Arabia to acquire a number of MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones, company executives said in an interview at the IDEX arms fair in Abu Dhabi. 'We are still in the very early stages but are pursuing this hard as there is a huge interest coming from Saudi regarding the MQ-9B — we expect they have significant requirements [for these drones] that could result in many of tens of thousands of jobs in the U.S. if we were to close that sale,' Dave Alexander, president of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, told Defense News. While the executive was coy about specifics — the Kingdom has yet to commit to anything — he noted that the combo offer includes a 'large number of aircraft' among other things, and would involve local involvement within the country. The company declined to elaborate on what else would be contained in the deal. Saudi Arabia has previously looked to China and Turkey as its drone manufacturers of choice, with the purchase of Chinese-made CH-4s in 2014 followed by more orders for the Wing Loong IIs. In 2023, the Gulf country also acquired the Akinci combat drones from Turkish manufacturer Baykar, which the company's chief executive Haluk Bayraktar called the largest defense deal in history between the two countries in an interview with Defense News. In the last few years, a sense of frustration was somewhat palpable in the Gulf region regarding requests for U.S. defense equipment, which suffered from significant delays and came with several conditions stemming from Washington's export control regime. For example, in 2021, following the U.S. State Department's decision to delay Qatar's year-old request to buy MQ-9Bs, the Wall Street Journal reported that some Qatari officials were becoming irritated from not receiving any explanations behind the hold-up. Alexander is optimistic that things will change under the new Trump administration when it comes to fast-tracking defense deals with regional allies that were previously halted or delayed. 'The future is bright with this new administration in that I think [Trump] will open up to a lot more pro-business in the area allowing us to move forward, treat our partners here like equals … and getting deals done and not making everybody mad with silly conditions,' he said. Alexander added that he expects the sale of the SeaGuardians to the UAE will resume under Trump. The multi-year negotiation process to export 18 MQ-9Bs, which began in 2020 with the U.S. approval for the sale, has been chaotic, to say the least. The drone acquisition was previously linked to an additional deal where the Emiratis would receive 50 F-35s, which was eventually halted over concerns about the country's use of Chinese technology. General Atomics' offering is a stand-alone one that remains separate from any potential fighter purchase from Lockheed Martin. 'No more weighing us down with that — 2025 is going to be a big year for us in the [Gulf] region,' Alexander added. Trump has expressed admiration for Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, the authoritarian ruler of Saudi Arabia, with whom he connects sizable business interests. Relations between the two countries were icier during the Biden administration because of Ryadh's human rights record.
