31 March 2020:General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) will install Detect and Avoid System (DAAS) on two MQ-9 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). As per the agreement signed between GA-ASI and Air National Guard (ANG), DAAS will be installed in MQ-9 Block 1 and MQ-9 Block 5 RPA. The DAAS consists of Due Regard Radar (DRR) processor, and a Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS). The software in the DRR will be upgraded by GA-ASI to add tactical weather mode, in addition to the air traffic surveillance capability.
The new Centreline Avionics Bay (CAB) which provides additional volume and mission infrastructure for integrating future capabilities is where the DAAS avionics will be integrated. The CAB's modular design and additional infrastructure will enable the MQ-9 Block 1 and Block 5 aircraft to be a more open and extensible platform for integration of other emerging capabilities.
"Our Detect and Avoid System has been extensively tested and not only meets, but exceeds the capabilities of the air traffic awareness and avoidance systems used on today's commercial airliners," said David R. Alexander, president, GA-ASI. "The DAAS is an integral part of the certification effort that will allow RPA from GA-ASI to fly in non-segregated, controlled airspace."
GA-ASI's DAA system also enables safe access to uncontrolled airspace and will comply with Due Regard procedure when operating in international airspace.