General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has received the EMAR/FR 145 Maintenance Organisation Approval for component maintenance from the French Military Continuing Airworthiness Authority (DSAE). The certification marks a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to expand its global maintenance capabilities.
The EMAR framework, derived from commercial aviation standards used by the FAA and EASA, establishes a unified approach to military aircraft airworthiness across Europe. This certification confirms GA-ASI’s ability to carry out high-level maintenance tasks while adhering to strict safety and reliability standards.
GA-ASI, a world leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), will now be able to issue EMAR Form 1s—official documents confirming the airworthiness of serviced components. The approval covers the company’s maintenance operations in Poway and Adelanto, California, focusing on component maintenance (CAT C) services.
Sam Richardson, GA-ASI’s vice president of Sustainment, welcomed the achievement, stating: “This approval is a significant step forward, allowing us to better support our international customers, particularly military users of our MQ-9A and MQ-9B UAS platforms. The EMAR/FR 145 certification simplifies regulatory processes, lowers costs, and accelerates airworthiness approvals by ensuring recognition across multiple countries.”
With the certification, GA-ASI strengthens its position in the global defence sector. Many military customers worldwide accept EMAR approvals, reducing the need for separate certification processes in different jurisdictions. This could lead to faster deployment and maintenance of aircraft, enhancing operational efficiency for both GA-ASI and its clients.
The approval also carries financial and strategic benefits. By working under the oversight of the DSAE Audit Team, GA-ASI can reduce future certification costs while ensuring compliance with stringent military regulations. For customers, the certification provides a recognised framework that streamlines maintenance approvals, cutting down on administrative burdens and operational delays.
A key advantage of this approval is its recognition by both EMAR and non-EMAR nations, making it easier for GA-ASI to extend its services to international military operators. The company expects this development to support its expansion into new markets, as more customers opt for its certified maintenance services.
GA-ASI’s MQ-9 series of UAS has been widely adopted by militaries around the world for surveillance and operational missions. By securing this approval, the company reinforces its reputation as a trusted provider of reliable, compliant, and high-quality maintenance solutions for unmanned systems.
As military aviation regulations continue to evolve, GA-ASI’s latest achievement positions it for long-term growth in the sector, ensuring that its aircraft and components meet the highest safety and performance standards.
