General Atomics MQ-1 Predator facts for kids
The General Atomics MQ-1 Predator is a special kind of aircraft that doesn't need a pilot inside. It's like a big, remote-controlled airplane! The US Air Force and the CIA use it. They use it for two main jobs: looking for information (this is called reconnaissance) and sometimes for light attacks. It has one engine and was used in places like Afghanistan and Iraq. Its main weapon is a light Hellfire missile.
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What is the MQ-1 Predator?
The MQ-1 Predator is an American aircraft. It was designed to fly without a person on board. Instead, pilots control it from a ground station. This aircraft is known as a "drone." It first flew in 1994. It was built by a company called General Atomics.
How the Predator is Used
The Predator has two main purposes. First, it is used for reconnaissance. This means it flies over areas to gather information. It can take pictures or videos. It helps people on the ground understand what is happening. Second, it can be used as a light attack aircraft. This means it can carry small weapons. Its most common weapon is the AGM-114 Hellfire missile.
Where the Predator Has Flown
The MQ-1 Predator has been used in many important missions. It played a big role in conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. It helped gather information and support troops on the ground. Besides the US, other countries also use the Predator. These include Italy, Morocco, and the UAE.
Images for kids
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At Paris Air Show 2007
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A Predator flies on a simulated Navy aerial reconnaissance flight off the coast of southern California on 5 December 1995.
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Predator operators at Balad Camp Anaconda, Iraq, August 2007
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Close-up of the Hellfire missile pylon, 2004.
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RQ-1A Predator
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Predator launching a Hellfire missile
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An MQ-1B Predator from the 361st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron takes off 9 July 2008 from Ali Base, Iraq.
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Operators of the aircraft.
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Three contract maintainers walk an RQ-1 into a shelter at Balad Air Base, Iraq in 2006.
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RQ-1 Predator of the Italian Air Force
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RQ-1B Predator 3-view drawing
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MQ-1B Predator 3-view drawing
See also
In Spanish: General Atomics MQ-1 Predator para niños
