General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) successfully deployed and tested anti-submarine sensors using several pre-production Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS) pods aboard the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. The company claimed these groundbreaking tests were conducted from January 20 to 30 last month.
The SeaGuardian has enhanced its proven ability to track submerged targets by introducing newly designed SDS pods, according to the company. These pods deploy multiple sonobuoys to perform onboard thermal-depth and acoustic data processing. By utilizing Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording (DIFAR), Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS), and Bathythermograph sonobuoys, the SeaGuardian effectively detects, tracks and analyzes underwater targets while gathering critical acoustic intelligence.
“The success of this testing paves the way for enhanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities on the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. We look forward to continued collaboration with the U.S. Navy as they explore innovative solutions for distributed maritime operations in the undersea domain,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander.
As part of the development process, GA-ASI successfully deployed multiple DIFAR and DICASS test sonobuoys, precisely correlating ejection speed with stress and strain data. It provided a high-fidelity launch model, helping to refine future deployment capabilities.
With strong demand from multiple customers, GA-ASI anticipates increasing interest in the MQ-9B SeaGuardian, given its advanced maritime capabilities at a significantly lower cost than traditional manned platforms.
India’s Procurement of MQ-9B and Growing Sonobuoy Collaboration
India has finalized a contract with General Atomics for the Tri-Service procurement of 31 MQ-9B SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) in October 2024. The deal, valued at Rs 34,500 crore, has been in the works for years. The Indian Navy, which has been operating these drones on lease for the past few years, brings valuable operational experience to the acquisition.
Meanwhile, India and the United States are in the final stages of negotiations to co-produce sonobuoys—critical devices for tracking submarines. The collaboration involves U.S.-based Ultra Maritime and India’s Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), aiming to enhance undersea domain awareness for both nations.
The project was a key agenda item during a high-level meeting between U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval in New Delhi in January 2025.
Sonobuoys, essential tools in anti-submarine warfare and oceanographic research, are deployed from aircraft or ships to detect and monitor underwater activity. Equipped with hydrophones and transmitters, they capture and relay underwater acoustics, including submarine engine noise, to enhance maritime situational awareness.
With this evolving partnership, India is set to strengthen its naval capabilities, reinforcing its role as a key player in the Indo-Pacific region’s maritime security landscape.
Team BharatShakti
