$68.2M to Develop Next-Generation Predator UAV

MQ-9 Concept

General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems of San Diego, CA received a $68.2 million cost-plus-incentive-fee contract to provide for the System Development and Demonstration (SDD) of the MQ-9 Hunter-Killer Aircraft. The MQ-9 is the next generation of the MQ-1 Predator, whose military role is expected to expand considerably over the next few years. The MQ-9 effort will enhance the Predator’s weapons carrying and targeting capability, and includes options for the retrofit of four aircraft to the MQ-9 SDD configuration, along with communications and ground and flight test facility upgrades. The Headquarters Aeronautical Systems Center at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH issued the contract (F33657-02-G-4035, Order 23).