Sure! Here’s the translation to American English:
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In a significant advancement in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) technology, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and AeroVironment have successfully launched a Switchblade 600 loitering missile from a GA-ASI Block 5 MQ-9A UAS. This historic event, which took place between July 22 and 24 at the U.S. Army testing ground in Yuma, marks the first time a Switchblade 600 has been launched from an unmanned aircraft.
David R. Alexander, president of GA-ASI, emphasizes the importance of this collaboration, highlighting that the combination of different unmanned technologies can have a significant impact on the battlefield. The MQ-9A, acting as a mothership, allows operators to conduct actions at greater distances from enemy defenses, thereby increasing the range and effectiveness of the Switchblade 600 in hostile environments.
During the tests, two launches of the Switchblade were conducted: one with an inert warhead and another with a high-explosive projectile. This process involved transferring control of the missile from an operator at the MQ-9A ground control station to a user closer to the operational area, thereby underscoring the flexibility and versatility of the system.
The validation of GA-ASI’s capability to integrate and operate various air-launched weapons is essential in modern conflicts. This adaptability provides commanders with strategic options and a safer, more effective approach in combat situations where the risk is particularly high.
Since its inception, GA-ASI has established itself as the world’s leading manufacturer of unmanned aerial systems, with over 8 million flight hours on its models, ranging from the iconic Predator and Reaper to the Gray Eagle. The company remains committed to innovation and the development of solutions that ensure continuous surveillance and rapid strike capabilities on the battlefield.
Source: MiMub in Spanish