EADS Harfang facts for kids
The EADS Harfang is a special type of aircraft that flies without a pilot on board. It was made for the French Air Force.
Contents
How the Harfang Was Made
This drone was inspired by another drone called the IAI Heron. The Heron was shown at a big air show in Paris in 1999. The Harfang was built by a large European company called EADS, which is now part of Airbus.
What Does "Harfang" Mean?
The name "Harfang" comes from "Harfang des neiges." This is the French name for the snowy owl. A snowy owl is a type of raptor, which is a bird that hunts other animals.
Harfang's Features
The Harfang is a plane with two main parts at the back, called a twin-boom design. It has an engine at the rear that pushes it forward. For navigation, it uses GPS, which helps it know exactly where it is. This drone does not carry any weapons.
Who Uses the Harfang?
Main Users
- The French Air Force uses the Harfang.
- It is flown by a special unit called Escadron de Drones 1/33 "Adour."
What the Harfang Does
The Harfang is used for important missions. In May 2011, it helped with observation during a big meeting called the G8 in France. In January 2013, France used these planes to gather information. They helped keep an eye on groups in the northern part of Mali.
Images for kids
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Rear of the Harfang drone
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Tail of Vehicle 1021 F-SDAU with its unit's symbol
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A closer look at the engine
