General Atomics’ aeronautical systems business has secured a $200 million contract from the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) to modify and test medium-altitude long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Under the contract, General Atomics will integrate Special Operations Forces-specific modifications into the MQ-9 and MQ-1C UAVs, produce modification kits, and conduct analysis for future enhancements. The work will be primarily carried out in Poway, California, with completion expected by March 2024. USSOCOM will allocate $5 million from its fiscal 2023 budget for this project, which will bolster the capabilities of these UAVs in supporting special operations missions.

Best Coverage: https://www.govconwire.com/2023/12/general-atomics-secures-200m-socom-contract-for-special-ops-uav-modifications-integration/