General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) has announced that from Aug. 21 to 22, a U.S. Army MQ-1C ER Gray Eagle Extended Range (GE-ER) UAS performed a flight demonstration using a Dynetics GBU-69B Small Glide Munition (SGM), which is a lightweight munition with increased effective range.

The demonstration was a collaborative effort between GA-ASI, the U.S. Army and Dynetics. 

“The GE-ER operates at an altitude that provides an advantage when using stand-off munitions,” says David R. Alexander, president, GA-ASI.

“The reduced weight of the SGM allows the UAS to carry more munitions per aircraft.”

During the demonstration, a GE-ER was equipped with a GBU-69B SGM. GA-ASI notes that the glide weapon can reach extended ranges when launched from the GE-ER at maximum altitude. Aa a result, it can effectively engage threats in a multi-domain operations environment while managing to stay out the engagement zones of threat weapons.

“The increased standoff range of the SGM enhances Gray Eagle ER’s survivability and mission effectiveness when operating in contested airspace,” Alexander adds.