Line of Defence Magazine - Summer 2023-24

Page 32

DEFENCE

Render of MQ-9B STOL taking off from an LHD

The current version of the MQ9B can fly for 40 hours in some configurations, far longer than any conventional crewed aircraft. It has already logged many operational successes in service with the Japan Coast Guard, the Indian Navy, and in exercises with the U.S. and international navies. A sea-based STOL version would take those capabilities anywhere allied warships like the HMS Prince of Wales need to operate. And on land, very short, unprepared strips could be employed. MQ-9B STOL might contribute to fleet defence by serving as an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance; airborne early warning; or anti-submarine warfare platform for a carrier strike group. It might scout ahead to be sure the waters and airspace are clear. Or allied militaries could launch MQ-9B STOL and deploy to littoral areas, or deep inland, to contribute to missions without the need for a regional airbase on land to support 32

the aircraft. MQ-9B STOL could support humanitarian assistance and disaster recovery operations, including forest firefighting and search and rescue. Or it could take on a number of other roles staged from the carrier offshore. Mojave’s successful test aboard the HMS Prince of Wales has shown what’s possible. Royal Navy leaders already say they are thinking about what will come next. “During a deployment centered around experimentation and expanding the envelope of the Queen Elizabeth class carrier, this is one of the highlights,” said Royal Navy Cmdr. Martin Russell, head of air operations aboard the HMS Prince of Wales. “Integrating the Navy Develop and General Atomics personnel into the Prince of Wales team was key to enabling such a large RPAS to operate from the deck during this trial, with the capability feeling like a glimpse into the future of these ships.”

Following the demonstration, the Royal Navy’s Second Sea Lord, Vice Adm. Martin Connell, also suggested that his might not be the only sea service that could adopt new aircraft and capabilities. “With so many international partners interested in the results of these Mojave trials on board HMS Prince of Wales, I am delighted that we are taking the lead in such exciting and important work to unlock the longer-term potential of the aircraft carrier and push it deep into the 21st Century as a highly potent striking capability.” So, whether for short, unprepared regional landing strips or on board small ‘f lat-tops’ like the Australian Canberra Class Landing Helicopter Dock that do not have launch and recovery equipment, Mojave and its successor, the MQ-9B STOL, have the potential to expand multidomain capabilities for defence and security forces. Line of Defence


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.