MQ-1C Gray Eagle learned to launch innovative Eaglet drones for reconnaissance, communications and data transmission
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems has tested the innovative Eaglet drone. A larger drone is used to launch it.
Here's What We Know
As is often the case, we learn about such tests long after they have taken place. In our case, the tests took place in December 2022. The Eaglet drone is being developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems with funding from the US Army Aviation and Missile Center and the Combat Capabilities Development Research Laboratory.
The Eaglet is an Air-Launched Effect (ALE) drone. During the December test, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems' MQ-1C Gray Eagle was used for the launch.
The US Army plans to conduct a series of tests in the future to determine the potential of the UAV. The Eaglet will use not only the MQ-1C Gray Eagle but also other aircraft, including manned helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.
The Eaglet is expected to provide extended range and mission durations while also increasing the safety of manned aircraft. The drone can be equipped with a variety of payloads for reconnaissance, communications and data transmission.