MQ-1B Predator UAV

Manufacturer: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems
Category: Attack & Multirole Drones (UAVs)
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Maximum Speed ~135 knots (250 km/h)
Endurance 24 hours
Operational Range ~1,850 km (with satellite control)
Payload Capacity ~204 kg (armament and sensors combined)

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	MQ-1B Predator
Manufacturer	General Atomics Aeronautical Systems
Country of Origin	United States
Type / Role	Unmanned Reconnaissance and Strike UAV
First Flight / Introduced	1994 / Early 2000s operational use
Status	Retired from USAF, limited global use
Unit Cost	USD 4–5 Million (Approx.)

2. Performance

Maximum Speed	480 km/h (diving max)
Cruise Speed	135 knots (~250 km/h)
Operational Range	1,850 km
Endurance	24 hours
Service Ceiling	25,000 ft
Rate of Climb	12 m/s

3. Dimensions

Length	8.22 m
Wingspan	16.8 m
Height	2.1 m
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	1,020 kg

4. Payload & Armament

Payload Capacity	204 kg
Hardpoints	2
Weapons	AGM-114 Hellfire missiles
Sensors	EO/IR camera, laser designator, SAR radar
Avionics	Satellite link, GPS/INS navigation

5. Propulsion

Engine Type	Rotax 914 piston engine
Engine Power	~115 hp
Propeller Type	Two-blade pusher propeller

6. Communication & Control

Control Type	Remote / Semi-autonomous
Data Link Range	~200 km LOS / Satellite beyond LOS
Navigation	GPS / INS
Ground Control Station	Fixed or deployable control unit

7. Operational Use

Primary Users	USAF, CIA, NATO partners
Combat Proven	Yes
Notable Operations	Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Syria

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

6.8

Technology 6 / 10
Performance 7 / 10
Combat Effectiveness 7 / 10
Operational Flexibility 7 / 10

PROS

Long endurance allows extended surveillance missions
Proven combat record across multiple operational theaters
Equipped with precision strike capability using Hellfire missiles
Advanced ISR sensors for real-time intelligence gathering
Remote operation reduces risk to personnel

CONS

Limited speed compared to manned aircraft
Vulnerable to advanced air defense systems
Requires satellite or line-of-sight communication links
Payload capacity is relatively constrained
Dependent on ground infrastructure and trained operators

MQ-1B Predator Drone

The MQ-1B Predator is a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle developed for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strike missions. Designed to operate without an onboard pilot, it became one of the earliest armed drones used by the United States Air Force and intelligence agencies. The platform played a key role in modernizing remote warfare by enabling persistent monitoring and targeted engagement in high-risk environments.

Manufacturer

The system is produced by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, a leading U.S. defense contractor specializing in unmanned aircraft systems. The Predator program marked a major milestone in the company’s expansion into advanced UAV technologies, integrating sensor suites, satellite communications, and precision weapons.

Capabilities and Performance

The MQ-1B Predator is powered by a turboprop engine that allows a cruising speed of around 135 knots. It can remain airborne for up to 24 hours, providing continuous coverage over extended operational areas. With a line-of-sight range of approximately 200 kilometers and satellite communication links for beyond-line-of-sight missions, the drone can be operated globally. It is equipped with electro-optical and infrared sensors, synthetic aperture radar, and laser designation systems for target acquisition and tracking.

Armament and Technology

The platform is capable of carrying AGM-114 Hellfire missiles for precision strikes. Its integrated avionics include GPS and inertial navigation systems, secure data links, and real-time video transmission to ground control stations. These features enable operators to conduct both reconnaissance and combat missions with high situational awareness.

Cost

The unit cost of the MQ-1B Predator is estimated at approximately 4 million to 5 million USD, depending on configuration and support systems. Additional infrastructure such as ground control stations and satellite links contributes to overall program costs.

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