Nato has accepted delivery of the fourth RQ-4D Phoenix remotely piloted aircraft at the Italian AFB in Sigonella, Italy. Credit: Falk Plankenhorn.

Nato’s Alliance Ground Surveillance (AGS) Force has received the fourth RQ-4D Phoenix remotely piloted aircraft at the Italian Air Force Base (AFB) in Sigonella.

After taking off from Edwards AFB in California, US, the aircraft landed at Sigonella following a 22-hour journey.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

The arrival marks another step towards the completion of Nato AGS Force’s fleet of five total aircraft.

The third RQ-4D Phoenix remotely piloted aircraft was delivered less than two weeks ago.

Nato AGS Force Commander Brigadier General Houston Cantwell said: “The arrival of the fourth aircraft enhances our capabilities with greater redundancy and flexibility.

“The Nato AGS Force continues our advance in becoming Nato’s key provider of regional ‘indications and warning’ information to members of the Nato Alliance.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The AGS System was procured by the Nato AGS Management Agency (NAGSMA).

Movement of the aircraft from California to Italy was controlled by industry pilots at the AGS Force’s Main Operating Base in Sigonella.

The first three aircraft were transported similarly.

Following arrival, the remotely piloted system will be handed over to the force after the NAGSMA and the Italian Airworthiness Authorities finalise the required documentation.

The Agency general manager Brigadier General Volker Samanns said: “Having now four out of five Nato AGS aircraft in SIGONELLA demonstrates the commitment and ability of the AGS procuring nations and of NAGSMA to deliver the Nato AGS system while increasing our flexibility in testing the system.

“It also provides the Nato AGS Force additional equipment for familiarisation and training.”