MQ-9 REAPER AUTOMATIC TAKEOFF AND LANDING CAPABILITY (ATLC)

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems developed the Automatic Takeoff and Landing Capability (ATLC) enhancement for the MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aircraft system under contract with the Department of the Air Force, valued at $31,278,555.05. The ATLC enables the MQ-9 to autonomously conduct takeoff and landing operations, including landing at alternate airfields without ground control station presence via satellite communication, expanding operational flexibility and reducing aircrew deployment burden. This modernization effort supports the Air Force's strategic objective to increase mission autonomy, safety, and combat effectiveness of its most in-demand remotely piloted aircraft system.