ExecutiveBiz ExecutiveBiz covers emerging companies in Washington's government contracting sector. 
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. announced Wednesday its Gray Eagle unmanned aerial system has reached 10,000 successful automatic launch and recoveries with the Automatic Take Off and Landing System.
The drone first deployed in 2008. Today there currently 50 in use.
Frank Pace, Aircraft Systems Group GA-ASI president Frank Pace said that the Gray Eagle’s ATLS has helped the Army reduce operator workload, streamline operator training and enhance aircraft reliability.
The Gray Eagle has been used for persistent, broad-area reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition missions.
It has also been used for convoy protection, improvised explosive device detection, aerial imagery, combat patrols, pattern of life analysis and precision weapons delivery.
