General Atomics Group said it is developing a new idea for the MQ-20 Avenger rocket unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), with the highlight being the rotated high-energy fighter laser artillery system, integrated right at the bow.
This design aims to expand the role of UAVs in future attack and drone defense missions.
According to illustrations from the company, the Avenger is equipped with a rotating tower at the nose that looks like a ball-shaped sensor cluster, often containing fiber optic - infrared sensors and a laser positioning system. However, in this design, the rotating tower is used as a combat laser weapon.
Although General Atomics said the project is currently conceptional, it shows the companys long-term direction in integrating energy weapons oriented to UAV systems. This system can help Avenger attack targets at extremely fast, accurate speeds without leaving any trace of launch.
According to General Atomics spokesperson Mark Brinkley, the final version of this weapon is likely to be deployed in many forms and will not only be used for Avengers, it can be mounted in a small subcompartment of the MQ-9B reconnaissance UAV as well as the Eagle STOL, or integrated on the Gambit attack UAV.
According to the idea, the MQ-20 will take on attack and air defense missions in complex combat environments, maintaining the ability to remain invisible and operate long-term. The laser system helps UAVs to "fire" silently, without using real ammunition and without detection by radar or observation with the naked eye.
High-energy laser systems are highly appreciated for their almost instant reaction speed, low cost per shot and the ability to disable targets without causing side damage.
When combined with long-range UAVs such as the MQ-20, this weapon can be used to counter cruise missiles, other UAVs or even manned aircraft in certain situations.
The MQ-20 Avenger - a stealthy rocket UAV capable of stealth and integrating a body arsenal - is currently being tested in many roles such as reconnaissance, attack, combat support and being a "winged team" for manned fighters.
The UAV has been used in tests with the US Navy and Air Force to assess the ability to coordinate between unmanned and manned systems.
Although the laser-powered Avenger is still only in the design stage, the announcement shows growing interest in UAV-oriented energy weapons.
