Overview
- General Atomics flight-tested the MQ-9B SeaGuardian’s Expanded Sonobuoy Dispensing System in December under U.S. Navy sponsorship to prepare for operational deployment with Pacific Fleet.
- The new ESDS pods double the drone’s sonobuoy carriage and enable deployment of Multi-static Active Coherent sonobuoys from an uncrewed platform.
- During the trials, the aircraft dropped AN/SSQ-36 bathythermal, AN/SSQ-53G DIFAR passive, and AN/SSQ-62F DICASS active buoys.
- The Navy is expected to determine approval for active anti-submarine missions after reviewing test data in January 2026, according to reporting.
- With far greater on-station endurance than crewed patrol aircraft, the SeaGuardian is intended to sustain deep-ocean searches and reduce tasking for P-8A crews and helicopters.