GA-ASI selects Belgium-based ScioTeq to support Detect and Avoid programme
As General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc (GA-ASI) pursues its development goal of obtaining FAA Technical Standard Order (TSO) clearance for its in-house developed Detection and Avoidance (DAA) system, the company has selected Belgium-based ScioTeq to provide a certified processor and display for its DAA solution. ScioTeq is a proven avionics supplier that was identified as a potential strategic partner at GA-ASI’s Blue Magic Belgium event in 2020.
Achieving FAA certification for its DAA system will help GA-ASI’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) gain authorisation to operate in non-segregated airspace, giving GA-ASI’s customers greater access to conduct military and civil missions. The certification of GA-ASI’s ACD capability is an important milestone for its new MQ-9B certifiable unmanned aviation system. The MQ-9B is designed to integrate safely and operate seamlessly in civil airspace, and the aircraft is equipped with the DAA system.
GA-ASI President David R. Alexander: “GA-ASI’s ACD system is a key capability for our latest MQ-9B SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian® platforms. We have invested significantly in developing a core ACD capability that sets us apart from our competitors. This includes an air-to-air radar that enables flexible operations in all classes of airspace for our MQ-9B customers. We look forward to working with ScioTeq and continuing our close relationship“.
The partnership will introduce a new generation of display computers by incorporating ScioTeq’s Next-Gen certified PU-5200 Avionics Display Computer platform and the RDU-4047 Projected CAPacitive Touch Panel (PCAP) display unit into GA-ASI’s ground control station. ScioTeq’s unique MOSArt® software platform facilitates the integration of GA-ASI’s ACD application on ScioTeq hardware.
“ScioTeq has a long history of supplying 24-inch mission displays for the MQ-9B’s certified ground control systems, and we are delighted to extend our long-term partnership with General Atomics Aeronautical through this new collaboration,” said Robb Gibbs, CEO of ScioTeq.
The MQ-9B SkyGuardian revolutionises the long-endurance RPAS market by offering all-weather capability and certification in full compliance with STANAG 4671, the NATO UAS airworthiness standard. SeaGuardian is the maritime derivative of the MQ-9B and remains the first UAS to offer multi-domain intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting (ISR&T) as an internal payload capable of surface and deep ocean search in support of fleet operations.
PARIS – June 2023
Benoit Denet
Photojournalist, Flying Loadmaster.
