U.S. Navy tests maritime surveillance drone capable of flying at an altitude of 12 kilometers

The U.S. Navy's Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force tested General Atomics' MQ-9B SeaGuardian drone at Whidbey Island, evaluating the aircraft under a company-owned, company-operated contract tied to the 7th Fleet. The drone can fly above 12 kilometers for more than 30 hours, using satellite links to monitor maritime areas beyond the horizon.

General Atomics says the aircraft supports maritime surveillance, anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, search-and-rescue, and law enforcement missions, and can integrate radar, tracking systems and an autonomous anti-submarine package. A company vice president called the demonstration a chance to show the aircraft is ready for use alongside the Navy's P-8A Poseidon.

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