What is MQ-9B Predator?

About MQ-9B Predator:

• It is a high-altitude, long-endurance armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), capable of remotely controlled or autonomous flight operations.
• It is a variant of the MQ-9 "Reaper" developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), with its primary purpose being for the United States Air Force (USAF).
• The United States uses these drones for surveillance, intelligence gathering and airstrikes. It has two variants: SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian. The latter has been in operation by the Indian Navy since 2020.
• Features:
  • It can carry up to 5,670 kg and has a fuel capacity of 2,721 kg. It can operate at altitudes exceeding 40,000 feet. It has a top speed of 275 mph, or 442 km/h.
  • It can fly as close as 250 metres from the ground without the target even having an inkling it is there unless spotted.
  • With a maximum endurance of 40 hours, they provide a reliable platform for prolonged surveillance.
  • It is armed with strike missiles, allowing it to engage and eliminate enemy targets with high precision. It can carry four Hellfire missiles and around 450 kg of bombs.
  • This feature enhances its effectiveness in various roles, including land and maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, electronic warfare, and expeditionary missions.
  • It is capable of automatic take-offs and landings, providing operational flexibility. 
  • It can safely integrate into civil airspace, enabling joint forces and civil authorities to obtain real-time situational awareness in the maritime domain, day or night.