General Atomics Aeronautical Systems announced on September 30, 2026 that the U.S. Navy had recently evaluated MQ-9B SeaGuardian at a maritime patrol and reconnaissance gathering at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington. The exact event date was not given.
The maritime MQ-9B operates through a company-owned, company-operated contract supporting an ongoing Seventh Fleet capability assessment. This is an evaluation announcement, not a new aircraft purchase or delivery.
The gathering brought together leaders, tacticians and industry partners to review anti-submarine warfare tactics, techniques and procedures. GA-ASI supplied the aircraft for an up-close examination of its maritime configuration.
