A weaponized MQ-9 Reaper . Photo: GA-ASI

[Via Satellite 03-25-2015] Communications & Power Industries (CPI) Malibu Division received a $2.5 million contact to build ground-based data links for General Atomics Aeronautical Systems’ (GA-ASI’s) Predator/MQ-9 Reaper drones. The company is supplying C-band advanced data link antennas to enable tracking and communications support.

CPI will complete the contract at its Malibu Division facilities in Camarillo, Calif. The data link employs an electronic-scanning antenna and acquisition aid to increase the accuracy of tracking the Predator B aircraft. Additionally, the antennas can transmit data and images, conducting near real-time Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) for military commanders.