Aviation News – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has surpassed 9 million total flight hours, a new company record achieved during ongoing test operations of the YFQ-42A Collaborative Combat Aircraft.
The milestone comes 33 years after GA-ASI began tracking flights of its unmanned aerial systems, which include the Predator, Reaper, Gray Eagle, Avenger, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian. The YFQ-42A, developed for the U.S. Air Force, contributed to the record as the company continues testing its next-generation unmanned fighter jet.
The YFQ-42A builds on decades of uncrewed aircraft experience, offering advanced capabilities designed to enhance U.S. and allied air dominance. With up to 50 GA-ASI aircraft flying at any given time around the world, the company remains central to global security operations.
“What an amazing moment,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “Having spent so much time supporting the U.S. military and its allies around the world with our other aircraft, it seems fitting that flight testing our new unmanned fighter jet for the U.S. Air Force was what helped bring us past this milestone as we look ahead to a program that will change air dominance again.”
Looking forward, GA-ASI’s latest platform is expected to play a key role in the U.S. Air Force’s vision of collaborative combat aircraft, working alongside manned fighters in contested environments. The company’s record highlights both its enduring role in unmanned aviation and its continued innovation.
From the first flight of the Predator in 1994 to today’s advanced systems, GA-ASI has evolved into a cornerstone of uncrewed operations. With 9 million hours behind it and the YFQ-42A pointing to the future, the company’s impact on global air power is set to expand even further.
