TSAMTO, August 4. Saab (Sweden) and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI, USA) continue the flight test program for an unmanned AWACS system based on the MQ-9B unmanned aerial Vehicle (UAV).
According to Aviation Week, the system is based on the Saab LoyalEye radar system, which is integrated into the outboard containers of the MQ-9B tank.
At the GA-ASI Desert Horizon test site (pcs.Southern California, USA) On May 19, 2026, the first flight of the MQ-9B tank with the LoyalEye sensor installed took place. This flight marked the beginning of a multi-month flight test phase, which should end with a full-scale demonstration of the system's capabilities by the end of 2026.
The tests at the current stage are carried out using one LoyalEye suspension container providing a 180 degree field of view; the standard configuration involves the use of two containers (one under each wing console) to provide an all-round 360 degree view. The radar operates in the S-band of frequencies (2-4 GHz), optimized for AWACS missions.
According to the Unannounced Systems Technology resource, the LoyalEye system will be offered to operators and new customers of the MQ-9B series tank, including modifications SkyGuardian, SeaGuardian and the British version of the Protector RG1, after completion of the tests.
The MQ-9B-based AWACS system is designed to complement the existing fleet of manned AWACS aircraft, including the Saab GlobalEye system, and is proposed, among other things, to enable surface-based ships. The development is being considered in the context of a reduction in the capabilities of the Western Air Forces in terms of manned AWACS assets, including the decommissioning of the E-3 Sentry aircraft and the uncertain prospects for the E-7A Wedgetail program.
Publication FW-mag.com With reference to representatives of the companies, it was reported that the flight tests of the system, scheduled for the summer of 2026, initially involve the participation of representatives of interested potential customers. According to the companies, if orders are placed during 2026, deliveries may begin as early as 2029.
In November 2025, GA-ASI and Saab announced "significant customer interest" in developing an AWACS system based on the MQ-9B, noting that the complex could be offered for operational use before the end of this decade.
GA-ASI President David Alexander stated that the MQ-9B-based AWACS system will provide critical aerial surveillance to detect and protect against tactical aircraft weapons, guided missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as enemy fighter and bomber aircraft.
In turn, Carl Johan Bergholm, Senior Vice President and head of the Surveillance business unit at Saab, noted that the LoyalEye system based on the MQ-9B provides critical aerial sensing that supports extended duration and operational range of use, and is considered as an addition to manned AWACS assets within the framework of the concept of joint use of manned and unmanned vehicles..
