Belgian Air Force Marks Historic Milestone with First MQ-9B SkyGuardian Flight
February 28, 2025
The Belgian Air Force achieved a significant milestone in its military modernization efforts last week with the successful inaugural flight of its first MQ-9B SkyGuardian unmanned aerial system. The historic test flight took place on February 20 in California, marking a crucial step forward in Belgium's enhancement of its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
Manufactured by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI), the advanced remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) performed flawlessly during its initial flight, confirming it meets the Belgian Air Force's operational requirements. This achievement sets the stage for Belgian operators to begin their flight training program in the coming months.
"This successful test flight represents years of planning and cooperation between our nation and our American partners," said a spokesperson for the Belgian Ministry of Defense. "The MQ-9B SkyGuardian will significantly enhance our reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities, strengthening our position within NATO and our ability to respond to evolving security challenges."
The first MQ-9B SkyGuardian is scheduled for delivery to Florennes Air Force Base this summer. Upon arrival, the aircraft will be configured exclusively for reconnaissance missions, equipped with state-of-the-art sensors including high-resolution electro-optical targeting systems and the advanced AN/APY-8 Lynx radar, providing Belgian forces with enhanced real-time observation capabilities.
The acquisition stems from a contract signed in August 2020 through the U.S. Department of Defense, following approval by the U.S. Senate export commission in March 2019. The agreement covers the delivery of four MQ-9B aircraft, two ground control stations, spare parts, and support equipment.
The SkyGuardian will replace Belgium's retired IAI RQ-5 Hunter drones and is designed to integrate seamlessly with future platforms, including the F-35A Lightning II fighter jets Belgium has also purchased as part of its defense modernization program.
The MQ-9B SkyGuardian stands out as GA-ASI's most advanced RPAS, developed to meet NATO's stringent airworthiness certification standard (STANAG 4671). Its key features include the ability to operate in civil airspace, all-weather performance with lightning protection, a damage-tolerant airframe, de-icing systems, and GA-ASI's proprietary Detect and Avoid System (DAAS).
With this acquisition, Belgium joins the United Kingdom and Poland among European operators of the GA-ASI drone family, opening possibilities for collaboration in training, exercises, and multinational operations.
The delivery of all four drones is expected to be completed by 2026, significantly enhancing Belgium's capabilities for both national defense and international missions. Military analysts note that this acquisition represents Belgium's commitment to maintaining technological parity with its NATO allies while adapting to an increasingly complex security environment.
Belgium tests first own MQ-9B SkyGuardian • Pilot & Airplane
The Belgian Air Force has successfully conducted its first flight with its first unmanned General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) MQ-9B SkyGuardian.
The test flight took place on Thursday, February 20 in California, with Belgian operators expected to start flight training as soon as their program is complete.
Belgium will receive its first MQ-9B SkyGuardian at Florennes Air Force Base this summer, with the UAV configured exclusively for reconnaissance missions. It will be equipped with electro-optical targeting systems and AN/APY-8 Lynx radar to enhance surveillance capabilities.
After the U.S. Senate export commission gave the green light to sell four MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) to Belgium in March 2019, drone manufacturer GA-ASI was ordered to start production of this.
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