BQM-177A Drone

Full Specifications

BQM-177A High Speed Aerial Target Drone

The BQM-177A is a high speed aerial target drone designed to replicate modern cruise missiles and fast attack aircraft. Built to push air defense systems to their limits, it plays a quiet but critical role in U.S. weapons testing and combat readiness.

Origin and Manufacturer

The BQM-177A was developed in the United States by Kratos Defense and Security Solutions. It is part of the broader family of expendable and recoverable target drones used by the U.S. Navy and other defense agencies. The system supports realistic training for surface to air missiles, naval air defenses, and advanced radar tracking systems.

Role and Capabilities

The drone is optimized to simulate high speed, low altitude threats. It can fly complex pre programmed routes and perform evasive maneuvers to mimic real world attack profiles. Its small radar cross section and fast dash speed make it suitable for stressing modern sensors and interceptors.

The BQM-177A is typically launched from ground based rail systems or aircraft. It can operate autonomously or under remote control, depending on mission needs. Payload options include radar enhancers, infrared sources, and scoring systems that allow evaluators to measure weapon accuracy and response times.

Operational Use

The BQM-177A is used extensively in U.S. missile defense testing, fleet air defense drills, and live fire exercises. It supports programs tied to systems like SM series interceptors, Patriot, and naval close in weapon systems. Its design focuses on reliability, repeatable performance, and realistic threat emulation rather than survivability.

BQM-177A Drone Price

The estimated unit cost of the BQM-177A varies by configuration and support package, but it is generally assessed at several million U.S. dollars per unit, depending on payloads and recovery systems.