General Atomics pitches Wildfire for U.S. Air Force MQ-9A alternative, with 8,000-nautical-mile range and capacity for two LRASM missiles

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems unveiled Wildfire as a lower-cost uncrewed alternative for the US Air Force’s Massed Modular Aircraft competition, positioning it against the MQ-9A. The company says the aircraft can ferry more than 8,000 nautical miles and carry either two LRASMs or four Joint Strike Missiles. Its modular design is intended to accept weapons, sensors, launched effects, and cargo while supporting autonomous, collaborative operations informed by the FQ-42A program. GA-ASI says existing factories and suppliers could support high-volume production well before the Air Force’s fiscal 2031 target, but no selection or order has been announced.