GA-ASI Integrates Lockheed Legion Pod Onto Avenger RPA

In a recent flight test, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) integrated a Lockheed Martin Legion Pod onto an Avenger Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) demonstrating enhanced autonomous sensing capabilities for an unmanned aircraft.

Taking less than three months for the Legion Pod integration to move from concept to flight, the 90-minute captive-carry flight test verified mechanical interfaces and aerodynamics safety of flight for the aircraft.

The Legion Pod’s infrared search and track (IRST) system provides passive, high-fidelity detection and tracking of air-to-air targets in radar-denied environments. Additional follow-on flights are planned for 2021.

Earlier this month, the company said it will modify its Avenger RPA with upgraded datalinks and Skyborg software.