The Predator B unmanned aircraft has landed at EAA AirVenture. This is the first time that the Air Force has landed this plane at a civilian airport. It will be on display at the main Aero Shell Square.
Developed in 2000 and first tested in 2001, the Predator is a long-endurance, high altitude, unmanned reconnaissance aircraft. It can do multiple mission including surveillance, targeting, weapons delivery and research. Its internal payload is 800 lbs. and the external on 6 wing hard-points is 3,000 lbs.
A typical mission might have the Predator flying off either remotely piloted or full autonomous. Its 66 ft wingspan could carry it to an altitude of up to 50,000 ft. The aircraft can then survey the intended area and stay aloft for as long as 30+ hours. If a target is located the Predator could drop bombs or fire missiles.
The Predator is built by General Atomics Aeronautical, has a turboprop engine, weighs in at 10,000 lbs. and can fly at a slow 222 knots
