U.S. strengthens surveillance with new high-performance MQ-4C Triton drones

USA reinforces surveillance with new high-performance MQ-4C Triton drones (YouTube @northropgrummanmedia)

The United States Navy will strengthen its surveillance network with the acquisition of two new MQ-4C Triton drones, manufactured by Northrop Grumman, for an investment of US$ 267.2 million.

These unmanned aircraft are expected to be delivered by 2028 and will be part of the seventh phase of the Triton program. Developed since 2008, the project has gone through various stages, including rigorous tests in California and Maryland, before reaching its operational capacity in August 2023. Currently, the drones are used for monitoring in the Indo-Pacific region, operating in strategic areas for the USA.

The MQ-4C Triton is a high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) unmanned aerial vehicle, based on the RQ-4 Global Hawk platform. Powered by a Rolls-Royce AE 3007 turbojet engine, it can reach speeds of up to 575 km/h and operate for more than 30 consecutive hours. Its AN/ZPY-3 active electronically scanned array radar covers vast maritime areas, monitoring up to 7 million km² per day.

In addition to reconnaissance missions, the drone assists in search and rescue operations and works alongside manned aircraft, such as the Boeing P-8A Poseidon, ensuring continuous and detailed monitoring. Recent upgrades, such as electro-optical/infrared sensors, have enhanced its identification capabilities and integration with other aircraft and vessels.

Besides the USA, Australia has also adopted the MQ-4C Triton, receiving its first unit in 2023 and expecting the delivery of at least three more. The Australian drones will be operated from the Edinburgh and Tindal bases to strengthen maritime surveillance and intelligence in the Indo-Pacific region.

The United States Navy plans to expand its fleet to 68 units, operating globally from both domestic and international bases, solidifying its presence in aerial monitoring operations across different scenarios.

Source: TecMundo / Olhar Digital | Photo: YouTube @northropgrummanmedia | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team