General Atomics Aeronautical Systems has designed a new component on the Predator B/MQ-9 Reaper’s landing gear that will improve the reliability and performance of the unmanned plane, the company said yesterday.

The new trailing arm can be installed on existing aircraft already in use and will be designed into the Block 5 Reaper production, General Atomics said.

“Our engineers and suppliers have worked hard to develop a landing gear design that will enhance and extend the utility of this multi-purpose aircraft for our customers,” said David Alexander, the company’s vice president of engineering for aircraft systems.

The upgraded gear increases landing weight capacity by 30 percent, features an increase in takeoff weight, a maintenance free shock absorber that does not require nitrogen pressurization, and an improved anti-lock brake system, General Atomics said.

General Atomics Predator series of UASs is flown by the military and used by domestic authorities to U.S. patrol borders.