SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 – A venerable unmanned aerial system (UAS) now has a potent new arrow in its quiver thanks to testing at U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground (YPG).
YPG testers recently evaluated the integration of the Switchblade 600 Block 1 into the MQ-9, often referred to as the Reaper when equipped with a munition.
The Switchblade 600 Block 1 (SB 600) is a state-of-the-art anti-armor loitering munition, featuring the potent warhead employed by the renowned Javelin anti-tank missile. The system excels in range, achieving an impressive distance of up to 175 kilometers when launched from an MQ-9 at an altitude of 30,000 feet. Traditionally recognized for its versatility as a man-portable and ground-launched asset, the Switchblade 600 further demonstrated its groundbreaking capabilities through a recent historic UAS fire test at YPG.
“While the Switchblade 600 was initially designed for air launch, it has never been deployed from an aerial platform until now,” said Sidney Mattila, test officer. “This joint test highlighted the full capabilities of the system and expands mission capabilities for our warfighters.”
In the test, the Switchblade was successfully launched twice—once with an inert warhead and once with a high-explosive round—targeting a T-72 tank from YPG’s target collection. These tests evaluated the system’s components, from the launcher to its long-range antennas. Control of the SB600 through the MQ-9 Reaper Ground Control Station (GCS) involved an advanced integration of Satellite Communications (SATCOM) and Data Link (DDL) relay, which enabled precise operation over long distances.
Following launch, the SB600 was maneuvered by an operator using SATCOM for over-the-horizon communication, ensuring continuous command and telemetry exchange. The MQ-9 acted as a relay station using DDL to manage real-time video feeds and enhance the munition’s precision during reconnaissance and target engagement. During the test, the SB600 was orbited around the target for confirmation before performing a high-speed attack dash, documented by a UH-60 helicopter and ground-based Kineto Tracking Mounts for comprehensive mission analysis.
“Integrating sophisticated weaponry into an aerial platform is vital to confirm the craft’s continued ability to fly while accurately firing weapons,” said Mattila. “YPG offers an ideal location for testing next-generation technologies like this and accelerating innovation to the frontlines.”
YPG’s vast range and air space allows for the testing of long-range weapon systems without fear of hitting occupied areas. This vast size also includes nearly 2,000 square miles of restricted airspace. The proving ground seems as close to an ideal venue for UAS testing as can possibly exist: YPG’s clear, stable air and extremely dry climate, along with vast institutional UAS testing knowledge, makes it an attractive location to aviation testers, as does the ability to control a large swath of the radio frequency spectrum. YPG has more than 500 permanent radio frequencies and uses several thousand temporary ones in the typical month and subject matter experts in all facets of replicating electromagnetic environments.
YPG’s unsurpassed capabilities allow for extensive testing without having to compete for runway and airspace with manned fighter jets as at other installations. Another critical bonus of testing at YPG is the presence of a wealth of other infrastructure meant for other sectors of YPG’s broad test mission that can be leveraged to support UAS evaluations. YPG is home to things like technical and tactical targets, as well as generator and combined maintenance shops, all of which are also useful for UAS testing.
Story by Mark Schauer
U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground