First MQ-9B SkyGuardian Arrives and Operates at Florennes Air Base

The first of four MQ-9B SkyGuardians ordered by Belgian Defence from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has officially arrived and begun operations at Florennes Air Base. Following its delivery in August, the aircraft made its maiden flight in Belgium on September 23, marking a significant milestone for the Belgian Air Force and its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.

“This event ushers in a new era of information dominance for Belgium,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. “The MQ-9B is the world’s premier remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) system, delivering intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance on a high-endurance unmanned platform.” The flight demonstrates Belgium’s growing operational capabilities in the rapidly evolving field of unmanned aerial systems.

The MQ-9B’s arrival in Belgium follows an intensive preparation period. The aircraft completed Acceptance Test Procedures in July at GA-ASI’s test facilities in Southern California, which included its first-ever flight in February. In parallel, 18 Belgian Air Force personnel completed initial MQ-9B training at GA-ASI’s Flight Test & Training Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota, followed by live flight training at the Desert Horizon Flight Operations Facility in El Mirage, California. This comprehensive training ensures that Belgian personnel are fully prepared to operate and maintain the platform under operational conditions.

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“With the MQ-9B SkyGuardian, Belgium enters a new era of ISR capability,” said Air Chief Major General Geert De Decker. “This achievement reflects not only technological progress but also the strength of our collaboration with General Atomics—built on mutual understanding, trust, and a shared commitment to operational excellence.”

Belgium joins the U.K. Royal Air Force as one of the first European nations to take delivery of the MQ-9B. Earlier this year, the aircraft became the first large RPA to receive a Military Type Certificate from the U.K.’s Military Aviation Authority for the Protector variant used by the RAF. The MTC certifies the MQ-9B for safe operation in civil airspace, including over populated areas, without geographic restrictions, highlighting its multi-domain versatility and operational reliability.

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The MQ-9B’s capabilities make it a global choice for advanced ISR missions. The platform offers pole-to-pole satellite control, long-range endurance, and de-icing capabilities, enabling operations in harsh environments such as the Arctic. Beyond Belgium and the U.K., other countries operating or selecting the MQ-9B include Canada, Denmark, Poland, Japan, Taiwan, India, and the U.S. Air Force, including support for Special Operations Command missions.

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The system has also been integrated into multiple U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, RIMPAC, and Group Sail, demonstrating its flexibility and effectiveness in multi-domain operations. The deployment of the first MQ-9B in Belgium marks a key step in strengthening the country’s defense and ISR capabilities, while highlighting the platform’s global reputation as a reliable, long-endurance unmanned aerial system.