General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc., maker of the Predator family of remotely piloted military aircraft, will join the ranks of the people and companies in the International Air & Space Hall of Fame later this week. Ceremonies are planned for Saturday (Oct. 21) at the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park.
The museum is honoring GA-ASI for its history of developing and implementing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) that have supported worldwide security and defense for more than three decades.
Poway-based GA-ASI is known globally for its advanced remotely piloted aircraft systems, particularly the Predator series which includes the advanced MQ-9A Reaper and MQ-9B SkyGuardian. With the passing years, GA-ASI continues to expand its product lineup to include additional variants and technology. The company’s contributions to the field of unmanned systems have significantly impacted military operations and have paved the way for developments in civilian and commercial applications.
Incorporated in 1992, GA-ASI is an affiliate of General Atomics, a diversified technology and defense company based in San Diego.
This year’s class of Hall of Fame class is notable for honoring not only people who fly, but an actor who personifies space flight. William Shatner, who created the role of Captain James T. Kirk in the “Star Trek” television and movie franchise, will be among the honorees. Also being honored are Royce Williams, American aviator and Navy Cross recipient; Robert DeLaurentis, record-setting American aviator; and Jessica Meir, distinguished NASA astronaut, biologist and a pivotal member of the groundbreaking Artemis program, which intends to land the first woman and next man on the moon.
Alison Award Presented
Separately, on Sept. 12, Neal Blue and Linden S. Blue were honored by Air Force Association. The brothers who lead General Atomics received the association’s John R. Alison Award, which is given annually to recognize the most significant contributions by industry to U.S. national defense. The award was presented as part of the 2023 Air, Space & Cyber Conference at National Harbor, Maryland.
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc.
FOUNDED: 1992
CEO: Linden P. Blue
HEADQUARTERS: Poway
BUSINESS: Maker of remotely piloted aircraft and subsystems
WEBSITE: www.ga-asi.com
CONTACT: 858-312-2810
NOTABLE: The Smithsonian Institution calls the company’s Predator aircraft “a drone that transformed military combat”
