General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and CAE have entered into a long-term agreement to develop and manufacture a new generation of mission trainers for the MQ-9B SkyGuardian® remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS). The contract secures an initial order of 11 mission trainers, with the potential to expand to 50 units over the next five years. This collaboration brings together two leading defence technology firms, strengthening training capabilities for MQ-9B operators worldwide and reinforcing the longstanding business relationship between GA-ASI and CAE.
Cutting-Edge Training for Advanced RPAS Operations
As a globally recognised leader in synthetic training for RPAS, CAE will utilise state-of-the-art visualisation technology to develop the next-generation MQ-9B SkyGuardian Mission Trainers. These advanced simulators will incorporate the CAE Prodigy Image Generator, delivering a highly realistic and immersive training experience. This innovative system, powered by an advanced gaming engine, provides high-fidelity graphics and physics-based simulation, ensuring that operators are equipped with the necessary skills for real-world missions. The enhanced realism of the training environment will improve operational preparedness and mission success rates.
The MQ-9B SkyGuardian®: A Global RPAS Leader
The MQ-9B SkyGuardian® is one of the most sophisticated RPAS platforms available today, offering unparalleled endurance, range, and autonomous capabilities. It features automatic take-off and landing under SATCOM-only control, providing seamless operations from pole to pole. The aircraft is equipped with GA-ASI’s proprietary Detect and Avoid system, enabling safe operation within unsegregated airspace. The MQ-9B platform includes the SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian® variants, along with the Protector RG Mk1, currently being delivered to the Royal Air Force in the United Kingdom.
The MQ-9B has gained widespread adoption, with procurement contracts secured by multiple countries, including Belgium, Canada, Poland, Taiwan, India, and the Japan Coast Guard. The aircraft has also been deployed in U.S. Navy exercises and has been selected by the U.S. Air Force to support Special Operations Command. Its growing global footprint highlights the demand for robust, long-endurance RPAS solutions in both military and security operations.
Strengthening Industry Collaboration
Jaime Walters, Vice President of International Strategic Development at GA-ASI, highlighted the long-standing collaboration, stating, “For over twenty years, GA-ASI and CAE have partnered to deliver cutting-edge training solutions, enhancing the skills and readiness of MQ-9B operators worldwide. This new agreement enhances operational readiness for MQ-9B operators, particularly in Canada, and ensures that personnel are fully prepared to manage these advanced RPAS safely and efficiently.”
This collaboration forms part of GA-ASI’s Team SkyGuardian Canada initiative, an effort to deepen partnerships with Canadian businesses following the Canadian government’s selection of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian.
Marc-Olivier Sabourin, Division President of CAE Defence & Security, International, emphasised the company’s commitment to advancing RPAS training, stating, “This partnership highlights our focus on delivering top-tier training solutions, ensuring MQ-9B operators have access to the most advanced and effective simulation tools available. CAE’s expertise in flight training ensures that operators receive the highest-quality simulation and instruction to achieve mission success.”
Driving Excellence in RPAS Training Solutions
CAE is a global leader in flight simulation and training services, partnering with top defence forces and aerospace manufacturers to deliver integrated solutions that enhance mission effectiveness. This latest collaboration with GA-ASI underscores its commitment to providing cutting-edge training capabilities that meet the evolving needs of modern defence operations.