Germany buys eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian RPAs

January 14, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support and the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) have decided to buy eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI).

Germany joins a growing list of NATO countries that have selected GA-ASI’s advanced MQ-9B RPA for its multi-domain capabilities.

The platform offers pole-to-pole satellite control and de-icing capabilities, enabling missions in cold climates. SeaGuardian features two multi-mode surface-search radars that deliver wide-area maritime surveillance, with an option to add anti-submarine warfare capability.

GA-ASI tests new sub-hunting system on MQ-9B SeaGuardian

Research & Development

Additionally, MQ-9B’s in-house-developed detect and avoid system aids its ability to fly in unsegregated airspace for domestic civilian operations, making it highly versatile for operations from Germany, according to GA-ASI.

“We’re thrilled that Germany has joined the list of NATO countries that have selected MQ-9B SeaGuardian,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue.

“The proliferation of MQ-9B in Europe delivers commonality between NATO countries and for Germany, it will provide opportunities for interoperability with their fleet of P-8As.”

The program also includes four certifiable ground control stations. The first delivery is expected in 2028.

The acquisition negotiation was executed on behalf of Germany by NSPA, which has developed a contractual framework through the MQ-9 Support Partnership (MIC SP) for supporting cooperation amongst its member nations.

NSPA has added MQ-9B to its portfolio of defense systems to contract on behalf of NATO nations, with the goal of enhancing interoperability for joint training and operations.

“This Support Partnership demonstrates how NSPA enables efficient, effective and responsive multinational acquisitions for advanced, interoperable capabilities. We are proud to support Germany in this strategic investment for maritime surveillance and security,” stated Stacy A. Cummings, NSPA General Manager.

MQ-9B includes the SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian models as well as the Protector RG Mk1 that is currently being delivered to the UK’s Royal Air Force (RAF).

GA-ASI also has MQ-9B procurement contracts with Belgium, Canada, Denmark, India, Japan, Poland, Taiwan and the US Air Force.