Improving the Design and Performance of MQ-9 Aircraft to Provide Pervasive High-Altitude Maritime Protection Capability

Due to emerging strategic demands, this article presents a comprehensive conceptual design investigation into enhancing the MQ-9A Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV). Motivated by the need for persistent long-range protection and surveillance capabilities, the research study proposes three primary modifications to create an aircraft titled the MQ-9X Raven. First, the existing turboprop engine was replaced with the widely used Williams FJ44-4A turbofan for reduced fuel consumption and excess power at 50,000 ft, with a range of approximately 8000 nm. Second, the wing design was updated with a 79 ft wing for a greater aspect ratio and a new LRN1015 airfoil to enable high-altitude, long-endurance standoff of around 24 h. Third and finally, the conceptual redesign included integration of a releasable store for maritime interdiction (AGM-184). The project follows a rigorous methodology beginning with a redefinition of mission requirements, aerodynamic, thrust, and stability analysis, and then verification with flight simulation, computational fluid dynamics, and wind tunnel experiments. Our analysis shows the MQ-9X Raven is highly suitable for the task of pervasive high-altitude standoff maritime protection.