General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) is reworking its Block 30 Ground Control Station (GCS) to enable operators to fly the MQ-9B SeaGuardian and SkyGuardian drones alongside the MQ-9A Reaper.
The upgrade centers on Block 30’s communications capabilities, adding a new datalink rack called the GA Interface Multiplexor Encryptor that serves as the bridge between the GCS and the MQ-9B.
Described by the company as the “heart” of the MQ-9B’s communications system, the encryptor securely relays critical data, including sensor feeds and aircraft status, between the drone and the ground station.
GA-ASI will also update the GCS software to support the MQ-9B’s unique capabilities.
Once complete, the upgrade will allow Block 30 operators to switch between flying the MQ-9A and MQ-9B without changing ground control systems.
The company plans to flight-test the upgraded Block 30 by the end of 2026.
No New Ground Stations Required
The upgrade enables Block 30 users across the armed forces to operate the MQ-9B without procuring new ground control equipment.
According to GA-ASI, the MQ-9B requires a more capable control station than other unmanned aircraft, making the Block 30 upgrade a key step toward broader adoption.
“We want to do all we can to deliver the most capable model of our aircraft to our customers, and that’s MQ-9B,” said David R. Alexander, GA-ASI President.
“We also know that by investing our own Internal Research & Development dollars, we can deliver MQ-9B at a lower acquisition cost by adapting the GCS for our current customers.”
