U.S. Navy Deploys First MQ-4Cs to Guam

Two Northrop Grumman MQ-4Cs, including one aircraft damaged in a landing accident last year, have officially started the high-altitude unmanned air system’s (UAS) first operational deployment, the U.S. Navy announced on Jan. 27. The aircraft’s arrival at Andersen AFB, Guam, on Jan. 26 allows them to join Task Force 72, which comprises patrol, reconnaissance and surveillance aircraft for the navy’s Pacific-based 7th Fleet.

“Coupling the capabilities of the MQ-4C with the proven performance of P-8, P-3 and EP-3 will enable improved maritime domain awareness in support of regional and national security objectives,” Capt. Matt Rutherford, commander of TF-72, said in a news release.