RQ-170 Sentinel Drone

Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin Skunk Works
Category: Attack & Multirole Drones (UAVs)
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Maximum Speed Classified / Estimated Medium Subsonic
Endurance Estimated 6+ hours
Operational Range Unknown / Satellite-linked
Payload Capacity Unknown (ISR-focused)

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	RQ-170 Sentinel
Manufacturer	Lockheed Martin Skunk Works
Country of Origin	United States
Type / Role	Stealth Reconnaissance UAV
First Flight / Introduced	Mid-2000s (Estimated)
Status	In Service
Unit Cost	Classified

2. Performance

Maximum Speed	Estimated Subsonic
Cruise Speed	Estimated 300+ km/h
Operational Range	Satellite-linked Global Reach
Endurance	Estimated 6–10 hours
Service Ceiling	Estimated 50,000 ft
Rate of Climb	N/A (Classified)

3. Dimensions

Length	Classified / Estimated 4.5–5 m
Wingspan	Estimated 20 m
Height	Classified
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	Classified

4. Payload & Armament

Payload Capacity	Classified (ISR sensors)
Hardpoints	None (Unarmed)
Weapons	N/A
Sensors	EO/IR, SIGINT, Advanced ISR Suite (Classified)
Avionics	Secure SATCOM, GPS/INS, Low-Observable Suite

5. Propulsion

Engine Type	Single Turbofan (Classified)
Engine Power	N/A
Propeller Type	N/A (Jet-powered)

6. Communication & Control

Control Type	Remote / Autonomous
Data Link Range	Satellite Beyond LOS
Navigation	GPS / INS
Ground Control Station	Fixed USAF Facilities

7. Operational Use

Primary Users	USAF / U.S. Intelligence Agencies
Combat Proven	Yes
Notable Operations	Afghanistan, Iran-related missions

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Technology 8 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Combat Effectiveness 8 / 10
Operational Flexibility 8 / 10

PROS

Stealth design optimized for contested airspace
Advanced ISR sensor suite
Secure SATCOM and long-range data links
High survivability against radar detection
Proven use in sensitive strategic missions

CONS

Highly classified; limited public data
Not designed for armed strike missions
High development and maintenance cost
Limited operational transparency
Restricted to specialized USAF and intelligence units

RQ-170 Sentinel Stealth Recon Drone

The RQ-170 Sentinel, often called the “Beast of Kandahar,” is one of the most secretive unmanned aircraft in U.S. service. Developed by Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works, the drone was designed to meet U.S. Air Force requirements for a low-observable, strategic reconnaissance platform capable of operating against advanced air-defense networks. While many details remain classified, the Sentinel has become synonymous with high-risk intelligence missions where stealth and persistence are essential.

Design & Mission Role

The RQ-170’s sleek, flying-wing configuration highlights its focus on stealth, endurance, and ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) performance. Built for deep-penetration surveillance, it provides real-time intelligence to support counterterrorism operations, strategic monitoring, and sensitive national-level missions. The aircraft reportedly carries advanced electro-optical systems, signals intelligence sensors, and secure data-link capabilities tailored for covert ISR tasks.

Performance & Capability

Although official specifications remain undisclosed, defense analysts estimate that the RQ-170 operates at medium altitudes with long-endurance capability, powered by a single turbofan engine integrated within its stealth airframe. The drone is believed to feature encrypted satellite communications, automated flight control, and radar-absorbent materials that reduce detection probability.

Operationally, the Sentinel has been linked to missions over Afghanistan, South Korea, and Iran, often supporting broader U.S. air and intelligence campaigns. Its combination of stealth technology and advanced sensors makes it a critical asset for environments where conventional UAVs would be vulnerable.

RQ-170 Sentinel Drone Price in US

Due to its classified nature, the exact unit cost of the RQ-170 Sentinel is not publicly available. Analysts suggest it falls within the high-end range of advanced stealth platforms, reflecting its specialized mission systems, composite materials, and low-observable design.

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