GA-ASI Secures EMAR/FR 145 Maintenance Organization Approval for MQ-9A and MQ-9B Platforms
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), a leader in the unmanned aircraft systems industry, has proudly announced that it has received the highly regarded EMAR/FR 145 Maintenance Organization Approval from the French Military Continuing Airworthiness Authority, known as DSAE. This achievement emphasizes GA-ASI’s dedication to maintaining exceptional safety and operational standards in military aviation.
The EMAR (European Military Aviation Requirements) framework is grounded in commercial aerospace regulations (FAA/EASA) that establish essential airworthiness criteria for military aircraft within Europe. It creates a unified airworthiness system that is acknowledged by military organizations globally. With the EMAR/FR 145 certification, maintenance organizations are permitted to conduct essential upkeep tasks while ensuring compliance with rigorous safety, reliability, and documentation protocols.
This certification enables GA-ASI to issue EMAR Form 1s (Return to Service forms) for components serviced by its authorized maintenance organization, affirming the equipment’s safety and airworthiness. It applies to maintenance operations conducted at GA-ASI’s Poway and Adelanto facilities in California and includes CAT C (component maintenance) services.
Sam Richardson, GA-ASI’s vice president of Sustainment, stated, “This recognition marks a significant milestone for GA-ASI, enhancing our ability to support our international clients, particularly military operators of our MQ-9A and MQ-9B platforms. Utilizing EMAR/FR 145 certification streamlines our operations, reduces costs, and accelerates future airworthiness initiatives, as many upcoming clients will prefer this certification over a lengthy independent verification process.”
By attaining the EMAR/FR 145 approval, GA-ASI further validates its capacity to satisfy the demanding requirements of the global defense sector. The wide recognition of the EMAR framework enables GA-ASI to broaden its operations while providing high-quality, compliant maintenance services to international clients, ultimately fostering growth within global markets.
This certification presents considerable operational and financial advantages for both GA-ASI and its customer base. For GA-ASI, the approval reduces future oversight expenditures by utilizing the DSAE Audit Team’s oversight activities, leading to a more efficient and cost-effective certification pathway for other non-French EMAR clients. For customers, the EMAR/FR 145 designation delivers an internationally acknowledged framework, simplifying the maintenance certification process. Agreements between EMAR and countries not adhering to EMAR standards allow future customers to benefit from GA-ASI’s French endorsement, significantly reducing the time and resources needed compared to a complete certification endeavor.
About GA-ASI
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. stands as a premier manufacturer of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). With over 8 million flight hours logged, the Predator® family of UAS has been operational for over three decades, including models such as MQ-9A Reaper®, MQ-1C Gray Eagle® 25M, MQ-20 Avenger®, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian®. The company is committed to delivering long-endurance, multi-mission solutions that ensure persistent situational awareness and rapid strike capabilities.
For additional details, visit www.ga-asi.com.
Original Article: GA-ASI Achieves EMAR/FR 145 Maintenance Organization Approval for MQ-9A and MQ-9B Platforms
