Saab, General Atomics Partner to Launch Drone-Based Early Warning System

Saab has joined forces with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) to develop an unmanned airborne early warning (UAEW) solution that combines AEW sensor technology with the MQ-9B unmanned aerial system platform.

The collaboration aims to integrate Saab’s airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) sensors with GA-ASI’s MQ-9B to enable continuous monitoring and enhanced situational awareness over designated areas. The system is being developed to support persistent surveillance missions and is expected to provide customers with flexible deployment options, including from naval platforms and in manned-unmanned teaming operations.

The new UAEW solution is designed to complement Saab’s existing manned AEW&C systems, including the GlobalEye platform. By leveraging the MQ-9B, customers will gain a medium-range option that can operate independently or in coordination with manned aircraft, offering greater mission flexibility and extended operational endurance.

GA-ASI will be responsible for integrating Saab’s AEW sensors into the MQ-9B, a platform already in service with several international partners. Saab brings decades of experience in delivering AEW&C capabilities to NATO and other allied nations.

This initiative reflects the growing demand for unmanned systems capable of long-endurance surveillance, particularly in environments where persistent monitoring is required and manned operations may be constrained by risk or limited resources.