RQ-21 Blackjack drone used Shryke precision-guided munitions for the first time

By: Maksim Panasovskiy | 16.12.2023, 15:56

The RQ-21 Blackjack unmanned aerial vehicle was tested in the USA. The drone used Shryke high-precision projectiles for the first time.

Here's What We Know

RQ-21 Blackjack is a drone from Insitu, which is part of Boeing Defence. Space & Security. It is equipped with a laser rangefinder, infrared camera, infrared designator and an electro-optical system.

The drone is 1.7 metres long and has a wingspan of 3.1 metres. It is equipped with a single engine that allows it to reach speeds of up to 150 kilometres per hour. The RQ-21 Blackjack is capable of climbing to an altitude of over 5,000 metres.

L3Harris, Insitu and Corvid participated in the test. During the test session, the RQ-21 Blackjack was able to successfully engage two targets on the ground with two GPS-guided precision munitions.

The Shryke is an anti-radar missile, the first modification of which was created 60 years ago. It was designed to destroy radar stations that are part of enemy surface-to-air missile systems.

The Shryke is operated by the US Navy and the US Marine Corps. However, the Marines will stop using these missiles within a few no's. At the same time, Australia is interested in Shyke.

Source: Insitu