A Mojave UAS conducting live-fire demonstration at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, on April 13, 2024. (Image source: GA-ASI)
Forget everything you thought about drone warfare. General Atomics’s Mojave unmanned aircraft system (UAS) is a game-changer that just roared onto the scene with a live-fire demonstration that’s shaking things up.
Conducted on April 13, 2024, at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, the test showcased the Mojave’s ability to engage static targets with remarkable precision, raising the bar for what’s possible with unmanned aerial vehicles.
Strafing Capabilities Usher in New Era for Drone Warfare
Traditionally, strafing attacks – where an aircraft flies low and fires at ground targets – have been the sole domain of manned aircraft.
During the test, the Mojave was equipped with twin Dillon Aero DAP-6 gun pod systems, each wielding a six-barreled 7.62mm cannon capable of firing 3,000 rounds per minute.
In a display of firepower and accuracy, the Mojave expended a total of 10,000 rounds across seven passes.
“Seeing our Mojave perform this live-fire demo really emphasizes the versatility of the Mojave UAS and what it can do,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “Mojave has the ability to act as a sensor, shooter, and sustainer while mitigating threat environments and vulnerabilities and safeguarding human lives.”
Beyond Strafing: The Mojave’s Multifaceted Potential
The Mojave’s success goes beyond its ability to strafe targets.
Forget everything you thought about drone warfare. General Atomics’s Mojave unmanned aircraft system (UAS) is a game-changer that just roared onto the scene with a live-fire demonstration that’s shaking things up.
Conducted on April 13, 2024, at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, the test showcased the Mojave’s ability to engage static targets with remarkable precision, raising the bar for what’s possible with unmanned aerial vehicles.
Strafing Capabilities Usher in New Era for Drone Warfare
Traditionally, strafing attacks – where an aircraft flies low and fires at ground targets – have been the sole domain of manned aircraft.
During the test, the Mojave was equipped with twin Dillon Aero DAP-6 gun pod systems, each wielding a six-barreled 7.62mm cannon capable of firing 3,000 rounds per minute.
In a display of firepower and accuracy, the Mojave expended a total of 10,000 rounds across seven passes.
“Seeing our Mojave perform this live-fire demo really emphasizes the versatility of the Mojave UAS and what it can do,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “Mojave has the ability to act as a sensor, shooter, and sustainer while mitigating threat environments and vulnerabilities and safeguarding human lives.”
Beyond Strafing: The Mojave’s Multifaceted Potential
The Mojave’s success goes beyond its ability to strafe targets.
Its short takeoff and landing (STOL) capability allows for operation from rough terrain or even aircraft carriers, significantly increasing its operational flexibility.
This adaptability makes the Mojave a valuable asset for various missions, potentially ranging from reconnaissance and close air support to logistical resupply.
Filling the Gap: The Mojave as a Contender in the US Army’s Shift
The Mojave’s live-fire demonstration coincides with a pivotal shift within the US Army.
Following the cancellation of the Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) program, the military is increasingly turning towards unmanned systems to fulfill armed reconnaissance roles.
The Mojave, with its demonstrated capabilities, emerges as a strong contender to fill this critical gap.
From Demonstrator to Future Fleet: GA-ASI’s Vision for STOL Technology
While currently a demonstrator aircraft, the Mojave represents a significant step forward for GA-ASI.
The company is exploring the integration of STOL capabilities into its existing Gray Eagle and MQ-9B lines, potentially bringing these advanced features to a wider range of UAS within its portfolio.
This could lead to a new generation of highly versatile unmanned systems capable of transforming the battlefield landscape.
#MojaveUAS is redefining what’s possible for unmanned aircraft.
The Mojave UAS live-fire demonstration serves as a powerful testament to the evolving capabilities of UAS.
As development continues and these systems become more integrated into military operations, the future of aerial combat promises to be a landscape shaped by both human ingenuity and the increasing sophistication of unmanned machines.
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