Belgium’s first aircrew has completed operational training on the MQ-9B SkyGuardian, a major milestone in the nation’s integration of long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) into its defense capabilities.
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), the developer of the MQ-9B, conducted the comprehensive training program across multiple locations, including Belgium, the Flight Test & Training Center in North Dakota, and the Desert Horizon test site in El Mirage, California.
Foundation for Advanced ISR Operations
The training focused on core competencies required to operate the MQ-9B and its suite of advanced systems, including the Multi-Spectral Targeting System (MTS), Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), and the System for Tasking and Real-Time Exploitation (STARE). The program also covered instrument flying, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations, Automatic Takeoff and Landing Capability (ATLC), and emergency procedures.
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“Providing all-encompassing training for the aircrews of our customers goes hand-in-hand with delivering the world’s most capable RPA,” said David R. Alexander, President of GA-ASI. “Completing this training ensures that Belgium is ready and able to operate their MQ-9Bs and maximize the benefits that come from long-range, high-endurance RPA.”
Operational Deployment Set for Late 2025
Belgium’s first MQ-9B completed its inaugural flight in February 2025. The aircraft is now undergoing Acceptance Test Procedures and is scheduled to arrive in Belgium before the end of September. The Belgian Ministry of Defence has ordered four MQ-9B aircraft along with two certified Ground Control Stations through a Foreign Military Sale with the United States.
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Unmatched Performance in Unsegregated Airspace
The MQ-9B SkyGuardian is GA-ASI’s most advanced RPA platform, featuring over 40 hours of endurance, global satellite communication (SATCOM) control, and seamless operations in unsegregated airspace via its Detect and Avoid (DAA) system. Its versatility allows it to support a wide array of missions, including ISR, maritime patrol (via the SeaGuardian variant), and special operations support.
In addition to Belgium, the MQ-9B has been procured by the United Kingdom (Protector), Canada, Japan, India, Poland, Taiwan, and the U.S. Air Force. The platform has also participated in high-level U.S. Navy exercises such as Northern Edge and Integrated Battle Problem.
With its first aircrew trained and its aircraft soon operational, Belgium joins a growing list of NATO and allied nations adopting the MQ-9B to enhance persistent surveillance and operational reach.
Javeria Sajid is an Aerospace Engineering student from NUST with a background in technology and a sharp focus on the global political landscape and defence innovation. She writes to make complex defence technologies understandable, and aspires to bridge journalism, policy, and engineering in her work.
