Aircraft MQ-8B Fire ScoutThe MQ-8B is a vertical take-off and landing unmanned aerial vehicle capable of operating in land and shipboard environments. It fulfills a number of operational tasks including real time battle damage assessment, over-the-horizon targeting, and provision of intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and precision strikes. Onboard avionics including electro-optical/infrared sensors and a laser designator allow it to find, track and designate targets. The Fire Scout is capable of deploying a number of different weapon configurations including Hellfire laser-guided missiles, or Hydra 70mm folding fin aerial rockets. Depending on its payload, the MQ-8B can operate from five to eight hours. |