ScanEagle Drone

Manufacturer: Insitu (Boeing)
Category: Attack & Multirole Drones (UAVs)
Add to Compare

Maximum Speed ~148 km/h
Endurance 20+ hours
Operational Range 100+ km (LOS)
Payload Capacity ~3.5 kg

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	Insitu ScanEagle
Manufacturer	Insitu (Boeing Subsidiary)
Country of Origin	United States
Type / Role	ISR / Tactical UAV
First Flight / Introduced	2002 / 2004
Status	In Service
Unit Cost	USD 8–15 Million (System Approx.)

2. Performance

Maximum Speed	148 km/h
Cruise Speed	90–110 km/h
Operational Range	100+ km LOS
Endurance	20–24 hours
Service Ceiling	19,500 ft
Rate of Climb	60 m/min (Approx.)

3. Dimensions

Length	1.4 m
Wingspan	3.1 m
Height	0.5 m
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	22 kg

4. Payload & Armament

Payload Capacity	~3.5 kg
Hardpoints	None (ISR Only)
Weapons	Unarmed
Sensors	EO/IR Turret, Maritime Imager, Laser Marker
Avionics	GPS/INS, Encrypted Data Link

5. Propulsion

Engine Type	Gasoline-Fueled Piston Engine
Engine Power	1.5–2 hp (Approx.)
Propeller Type	Two-Blade Rear Pusher Prop

6. Communication & Control

Control Type	Remote / Semi-Autonomous
Data Link Range	100+ km LOS
Navigation	GPS / INS
Ground Control Station	Mobile or Ship-Based

7. Operational Use

Primary Users	U.S. Navy, USMC, Australia, Japan
Combat Proven	Yes
Notable Operations	Iraq, Afghanistan, Anti-Piracy Ops

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

7.8

Technology 7 / 10
Performance 9 / 10
Combat Effectiveness 7 / 10
Operational Flexibility 8 / 10

PROS

Long endurance with low fuel consumption
Compact launcher and recovery system; no runway needed
Proven performance in maritime and expeditionary operations
Modular payloads adaptable to ISR mission sets
Low operating and maintenance cost

CONS

Unarmed platform; strictly ISR
Limited payload capacity
Weather sensitivity due to lightweight airframe
Requires specialized SkyHook system for recovery
Slower speed compared to larger tactical UAVs

ScanEagle ISR Drone

The ScanEagle is a proven long-endurance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) unmanned aerial vehicle developed by Insitu, a Boeing subsidiary based in the United States. Designed initially for commercial fishing fleet monitoring, the platform evolved into a highly capable military reconnaissance drone widely used by the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and international defense forces.

Powered by a lightweight gasoline engine and optimized for minimal acoustic signature, the ScanEagle excels in persistent surveillance missions over land and sea. Its endurance—often surpassing 20 hours—enables operators to maintain continuous situational awareness during maritime interdictions, border patrols, special operations support, and forward-deployed reconnaissance. The aircraft features a 10 ft wingspan, compact fuselage, and a pneumatic launch system, eliminating the need for runways. Recovery is performed using Insitu’s SkyHook capture system, allowing deployment from ships, remote outposts, and austere environments.

At the heart of its mission capability is a modular payload bay that supports EO/IR sensors, maritime imaging systems, and advanced communication relays. The drone transmits real-time video via encrypted data link, enabling tactical commanders to maintain constant visual coverage of high-value targets. While the ScanEagle is unarmed, it plays a critical role in guiding manned and unmanned strike assets, providing overwatch, and enhancing operational decision-making.

With a strong track record in combat theaters including Iraq, Afghanistan, and the South China Sea, the ScanEagle remains one of the most versatile small tactical UAVs in service. Its low operating cost, compact logistics footprint, and consistent operational reliability make it a core ISR asset for U.S. forces and partner militaries.

ScanEagle ISR Drone Price

The ScanEagle ISR Drone does not have a fixed public unit price, as costs vary based on sensor configuration, support packages, and operational requirements. However, past U.S. DoD contracts typically value a full ScanEagle system—including air vehicles, ground control station, and support—between $8 million and $15 million, depending on the package.

Reviews

Be the first to add a Review

Please post a user review only if you have / had this product.
Your Name *
Your Email *
Review Title *
Review Text *
Rate this Product
Technology:

8
Performance:

8
Combat Effectiveness:

8
Operational Flexibility:

8
Average Rating 6 / 10 based on your selection

Disclaimer Note

The information provided on TheDefenseWatch.com is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of our content regarding defense and aerospace products, technologies, and specifications, we cannot guarantee that all information is 100% accurate or up-to-date due to the evolving nature of military technology and classified data. TheDefenseWatch.com does not warrant the reliability, suitability, or availability of the information for any specific purpose. Users are advised to consult official sources, such as manufacturers, government publications, or defense agencies, for precise and verified data before making decisions based on our content. We are not affiliated with any defense manufacturers, governments, or military organizations mentioned. Opinions, reviews, and ratings reflect expert analysis but are subjective and should not be considered endorsements. TheDefenseWatch.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this website’s content. External links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. TheDefenseWatch.com reserves the right to update or modify content without prior notice. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy & Cookies Policy.