Germany will acquire eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones through NATO, enhancing its maritime surveillance capabilities with deliveries starting in 2028.
Germany to Procure Eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Through NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)
NSPA Supports NATO Countries in the Acquisition and Maintenance of GA-ASI's Advanced Multi-Domain RPA
The Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of Germany, along with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), announced the procurement of eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). The program also includes four Certifiable Ground Control Stations. The first delivery is expected in 2028.
Germany joins the growing list of NATO countries that have chosen GA-ASI's advanced MQ-9B RPA for its extremely long range and endurance, as well as its multi-domain capabilities. The platform provides polar-to-polar satellite control and de-icing capabilities to enable missions in cold climates. The SeaGuardian is equipped with two multi-mode surface search radars that provide wide-area maritime surveillance, along with the option to add Anti-Submarine Warfare capability. Additionally, the MQ-9B's internally developed Detect and Avoid System enhances its ability to operate in non-segregated airspace for local civil operations, making it highly versatile for operations originating from Germany.
The MQ-9B became the first major RPA to receive Military Type Certification from the UK Military Aviation Authority in 2025, which certifies its safe operation without geographic restrictions, including in populated areas.
GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue stated, 'We are excited to see Germany join the list of NATO countries selecting the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. The proliferation of the MQ-9B in Europe fosters partnerships among NATO countries and will provide interoperability opportunities for Germany alongside the P-8A fleet.'
The acquisition negotiation was conducted on behalf of Germany by NSPA, which developed a contractual framework through the MQ-9 Support Partnership (MIC SP) to support collaboration among member countries and ensure the provision of MQ-9B to NATO Allies and Partners. NSPA has added the MQ-9B to its defense systems portfolio to facilitate contracting on behalf of NATO nations to enhance interoperability for joint training and operations.
NSPA Director General Ms. Stacy A. Cummings remarked, 'This Support Partnership demonstrates how NSPA delivers efficient, effective, and responsive multinational acquisitions for advanced, interoperable capabilities. We are proud to support Germany in this strategic investment for maritime surveillance and security.'
The MQ-9B includes the SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian® models, as well as the Protector RG Mk1, which is currently being delivered to the Royal Air Force (RAF) in the United Kingdom. GA-ASI also has MQ-9B procurement contracts with the U.S. Air Force to support Belgium, Canada, Denmark, India, Japan, Poland, Taiwan, and Special Operations Command, and looks forward to including Germany in this group. The MQ-9B has also participated in various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, RIMPAC, and Group Sail.
Source: www.denizhaber.com
