General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) and Hanwha Aerospace have carried out the first-ever flight operations by a medium-altitude, long-endurance uncrewed aircraft from a simulated battlefield. The companies proved that their Mojave Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) aircraft can land at a live-fire tank and artillery range under simulated combat conditions, then take off again to resume its mission.
The demonstration took place during the Defense Drone Technology Exhibition, held in the countryside north of Seoul. Configured with dual weapon rails and inert payloads, Mojave flew a concept of operations designed to show how STOL capability boosts flexibility, survivability and responsiveness for future Republic of Korea (ROK) defence needs.
Pilots at ground control stations launched Mojave from a conventional runway at the ROK Army’s 513th Aviation Battalion. The aircraft then flew to the Seungjin Training Field, where it joined air operations before landing on a rough manoeuvre trail typically used by tanks and artillery vehicles. It then took off again, resumed operations, and returned to base. In a real conflict, troops could have refuelled and rearmed Mojave during its time on the ground. No other aircraft with comparable endurance, range or payload can currently do this, according to GA-ASI.
GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue commented that the demonstration showed Mojave’s ability to perform tactical missions reflecting real battlefield demands, from contested operations to counter-UAS work. Hanwha Aerospace CEO nominee Buhwan Lee added that the milestone strengthens the firms’ partnership and will support development of unmanned systems for future operating environments.
GA-ASI and Hanwha announced their partnership in 2025 to co-develop STOL-capable uncrewed aircraft systems for customers including the ROK Ministry of National Defense and the US Department of War, according to a recent press statement. Critical Design Review for a production Mojave STOL is expected in November, with first flight planned for 2027. The demonstrator aircraft will next appear at Hanwha’s Industry Day in Changwon on 21 September.
Learn more on General Atomics Aeronautical’s website
