Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support, together with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), has announced the procurement of eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc...
The programme also includes four certifiable Ground Control Stations, with first deliveries expected in 2028.
Germany becomes the latest NATO nation to select the MQ-9B SeaGuardian, recognising its advanced multi-domain capabilities, long range and extended endurance. The aircraft features pole-to-pole satellite control, de-icing for cold-weather operations, and two multi-mode surface-search radars for wide-area maritime surveillance, with growth options including anti-submarine warfare.
MQ-9B is also equipped with an in-house Detect and Avoid System, enabling operations in unsegregated airspace and supporting domestic civilian missions. In 2025, MQ-9B became the first large RPA to receive a Military Type Certificate from the UK Military Aviation Authority, certifying unrestricted safe operation, including over populated areas.
“We’re thrilled that Germany has joined the growing list of NATO countries selecting MQ-9B SeaGuardian,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. “Its adoption strengthens NATO interoperability and provides Germany with opportunities to integrate with allied fleets, including P-8A maritime patrol aircraft.”
The acquisition was negotiated by NSPA through its MQ-9 Support Partnership, which provides a common contractual framework to support multinational cooperation and interoperable capability development among NATO allies.
“This partnership demonstrates NSPA’s ability to deliver efficient and responsive multinational procurement of advanced systems,”
said NSPA General Manager Stacy A. Cummings.
MQ-9B variants are already in service or on order with multiple allied nations, and the platform has participated in major US and allied naval exercises worldwide.
Photo: From left to right: Allan McLeod, NSPA, Chris Dusseault, GA-ASI, and Joseph Lyden, NSPA.
Source: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.