General Atomics continues software upgrade to Reaper drone

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General Atomics Aeronautical Systems won a $49.3 million order to continue work on the MQ-9 Reaper drone under an Air Force Special Operations Command and Air Combat Command contract.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems has won a $49.3 million order to continue work on MQ-9 Reaper drones under an Air Force Special Operations Command and Air Combat Command contract.

The company will provide software development services for the drone.

MQ-9 Reapers are remotely piloted and is used for long-endurance missions and high-altitude surveillance. But the drones also carry weapons and is seen by some as alternative to manned aircraft.

The contract runs through Jan. 31, 2020.

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