Debrief: GA-ASI Offers SeaGuardian For U.S. Air Force Reaper Shortage | Aviation Week

GA-ASI is pitching the SeaGuardian as both a short-term backfill for the MQ-9A shortage and a lower-cost long-term option. During a June 10 interview at the ILA Berlin air show, GA-ASI President Dave Alexander described a plan to mix MQ-9A and MQ-9B operations in the near term. He argued the approach preserves capability while the Air Force weighs cheaper options from startups and other contractors. The plan also addresses a fleet that has suffered losses in recent campaigns. Air Force leadership says they need to backfill the fleet while evaluating cheaper options. Alexander cited public reporting that up to 42 Reapers could have been shot down and noted the MQ-9A lacks onboard self-protection. GA-ASI continues producing the MQ-9B for foreign customers, with more than 100 on contract, while the domestic MQ-9A line remains limited. The company argues SeaGuardian offers a viable bridge to longer-term, cheaper solutions.