The MQ-1B Armed Predator is a variant of the RQ-1 Predator that was
modified to be able to accomplish a ground attack role as well as
reconnaissance. The Predator is part of a remotely piloted aircraft system. A fully
operational system consists of four sensor/weapon-equipped aircraft,
ground control station, Predator Primary Satellite Link, and spare
equipment, along with operations and maintenance crews for deployed
24-hour missions.
The Predator was launched in January 1994 as an Advanced Concept Technology
Demonstration (ACTD). The US Air Force received its first Predators in 1994, and deployed them for the first time over Bosnia between 1995-6. Since then, Predators were operated by both USAF and the Central Intelligence Agency, designated RQ-1A.
MQ-1B Armed Predator General Characteristics
Primary Function: Armed reconnaissance, airborne surveillance, and target acquisition
Contractor: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc.
Power Plant: Rotax 914F four-cylinder engine
Thrust: 115 horsepower
Wingspan: 55 feet (16.8 meters)
Length: 27 feet (8.22 meters)
Height: 6.9 feet (2.1 meters)
Weight: 1,130 pounds ( 512 kilograms) empty
Maximum takeoff weight: 2,250 pounds (1,020 kilograms)
Fuel Capacity: 665 pounds (100 gallons)
Payload: 450 pounds (204 kilograms)
Speed: Cruise speed around 84 mph (70 knots), up to 135 mph
Range: Up to 770 miles (675 nautical miles)
Ceiling: Up to 25,000 feet (7,620 meters)
Armament: Two laser-guided AGM-114 Hellfire missiles
Crew (remote): Two (pilot and sensor operator)
Unit Cost: $20 million (includes four aircraft with sensors, ground control station and Predator Primary satellite link) (fiscal 2009 dollars)
Initial operational capability: March 2005
Inventory: Total force, 164
MQ-1B Armed Predator at 2011 NAS Lemoore AirShow
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