General Atomics unveils Wildfire drone to replace MQ-9 Reaper

General Atomics has unveiled the Wildfire, a new medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial system designed to replace the MQ-9 Reaper. The development comes as the U.S. military faces significant attrition of its Reaper fleet, with reports indicating at least 45 aircraft have been lost in recent conflicts, costing over $1.3 billion.

The Wildfire is being submitted as part of the Defense Innovation Unit’s (DIU) Massed Modular Aircraft (MMA) program. This Pentagon initiative seeks a modular, lower-cost drone capable of operating in large numbers to absorb combat losses. While the MQ-9 Reaper costs between $30 million and $50 million per unit, the MMA program aims for a price point below $30 million.

Key specifications for the Wildfire include a potential ferry range of up to 10,000 nautical miles and the ability to carry four AGM-158C long-range anti-ship missiles. The system is intended to support semi-autonomous swarm operations, allowing a single pilot to control multiple drones. General Atomics aims to balance low cost with high tactical performance, including resistance to electronic interference and adverse weather.