General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) and L3Harris Technologies have successfully completed equipping a GA-ASI MQ-9 Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) with the WESCAM MX-20 Electro-optical/Infrared (EO/IR) system, resulting in an advanced targeting platform.

Beginning Feb. 18, a series of test flights were conducted to demonstrate the MQ-9’s ability to locate and track targets at long stand-off ranges thanks to the integration of the MX-20.

“The GA-ASI and L3Harris teams have worked closely over the past year to ensure the successful integration of this sophisticated system,” says Linden Blue, CEO, GA-ASI.

“This is a significant milestone and we look forward to the enduring relationship and growing opportunities with L3Harris WESCAM.”

The WESCAM MX-20 EO/IR system will support Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) and Precision Guided Munitions (PGM) missions when it is integrated onto the MQ-9 Predator B series of RPAS. Through multiple deployments, the WESCAM MX-20 has been proven in the field.

Equipped with high-sensitivity multi-spectral sensors for day, low-light and nighttime missions, the WESCAM MX-20 operates with “outstanding detection and recognition capabilities from ultra-high altitudes,” according to GA-ASI.

“L3Harris is proud to partner with GA-ASI to deliver sophisticated technologies for persistent surveillance missions and evolving battlefields,” says Jacques Comtois, general manager, WESCAM, L3Harris.

“Being a Team SkyGuardian partner allows us to support our technology’s modular growth path with unprecedented levels of innovation and business opportunities globally for leading unmanned aircraft system programs.”