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Hellfire Missile Kit, General Atomics MQ-1L Predator A
The Predator can provide near real-time reconnaissance using a satellite data link system and perform attack missions as well. It served over the Balkans and Afghanistan and during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. The most historic use of the Predator/Hellfire missile combination occurred when CIA ground forces directed attacks against al Qaeda forces during the opening months of the war on terrorism.
This U.S. Air Force Predator was one of the first three UAVs to fly operational missions over Afghanistan after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. It went on to fly 196 combat missions in Afghanistan. It was also the first Predator to test fire the Hellfire missile, and the first UAV to fire Hellfire missiles in combat. With modifications to its wing length, propeller, avionics, and engine cooling system, it has served as the prototype for subsequent MQ-IL aircraft.
Display Status
This object is on display in
Cold War Aviation
at the
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Date
2000
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
CRAFT-Aircraft Parts
Manufacturer
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc
Physical Description
Satellite data link system, an Electro-optical/Infrared (EO/IR) stabilized gimbal containing two color video cameras and a forward looking infrared (FLIR) as well as synthetic aperture radar (SAR)
Materials
Carbon fiber, alumimum, steel, copper, plastic, glass, rubber, paint
Inventory Number
A20040180004
Credit Line
Transferred from the United States Air Force
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
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