Predator - end of an Icon

[popcorn]

After 21 years, the end of the road is in sight for the trailblazing platform. A great example of putting a new, unproven system into the hands of the end-users and allowing it to evolve in response to actual operational needs.

http://www.defencetalk.com/usaf-prepare ... res-69292/

USAF Prepares for All MQ-9 Force as MQ-1 Predator Retires

CREECH AIR FORCE BASE: For the past 21 years the Air Force has flown the remotely piloted MQ-1 Predator in combat, and for the last 10, the MQ-9 Reaper. Combined with a skilled aircrew, these aircraft provide consistent support in daily engagements making an impact downrange.

While the MQ-1 has provided many years of service, the time has come for the Air Force to fly the more capable MQ-9 exclusively, and retire the MQ-1 in early 2018 to keep up with the continuously evolving battlespace environment...

“I think when we look at the legacy of the MQ-1 we’re going to be scratching our heads wondering how we did so much with so little,” Joseph said. “The men and women flying them starting with two squadrons took a science project and throughout many evolutionary changes made it what it is today.”

The MQ-1 began as the RQ-1 Predator, an unarmed RPA flown by line-of-sight. Some changes include the adding of the Multi-Spectral Targeting system, the addition of weapons and remote-split operations capability.

“The MQ-1 is a great example where the Air Force took a technology demonstrator and turned it into a major weapons system having daily effects on the battlefield,” James said. “We have found how to fly an imperfect weapons system very well, and I think we have maximized the effectiveness that we can get out of the MQ-1. I have no doubt that we will continue to find ways to be more effective in combat with the MQ-9.”

[sprstdlyscottsmn]

It was always comforting to hear that lawnmower in the sky.