When General Atomics Aeronautical Systems developed the MQ-1 Predator drone in the late 1990s, it signaled the first effective application of unmanned aircraft—a long-considered military concept. Predators were initially made to collect intelligence. However, this platform later took on a combat role, as well. Unlike most aircraft in the US Air Force, the Predator is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), meaning a team of Airmen control it from a remote location. MQ-1s were used heavily in the Middle East to locate high-value targets. Thanks to their successful application, Predators demonstrated the potential for UAVs to effectively contribute to Air Force missions in several ways.
In 2004, the US Air Force used the Utah Test and Training Range (UTTR) to assess the MQ-1’s ability to strike a moving target with munitions—testing its possible combat capability. Because of this successful evaluation, the Predator went on to support not just reconnaissance missions, but combat operations too. Along with UTTR support for the MQ-1, the Ogden Air Logistics Complex at Hill Air Force Base also provided software development and sustainment to support the MQ-1 while in active service.
During its time with the US Air Force, the MQ-1B on display flew combat missions in Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan. First flying on 31 January 2005, it accumulated 28,069 hours of flight time and took part in over 1,600 combat missions. It retired from service in 2017 and arrived at the Hill Aerospace Museum for static display in 2020.
This aircraft is on loan from the U.S. Air Force Heritage Program.
Serial Number: 03-33116
Manufacturer: General Atomics
Primary Function: Armed Reconnaissance, Airborne Surveillance
Crew: Unmanned; Remote Pilot and Sensor Operator
Engines: One Rotax 914F 4-cylinder engine; 115 horsepower
Wingspan: 55 ft
Length: 27 ft
Height: 7 ft
Weight: 1,130 lbs.; Maximum Takeoff Weight: 2,250 lbs.
Speed: Maximum: 135 mph; Cruising Speed: 84 mph
Service Ceiling: 25,000 ft
Armament: Two AGM-114 Hellfire missiles
Years of Service: 1995 – 2018
The MQ-1B Predator was an unmanned aerial vehicle developed by General Atomics in the late 1990s. Initially designed for reconnaissance, the Predator later took on combat roles. Unlike traditional aircraft, it was remotely controlled by a team of Airmen from ground stations.
The Predator was initially used for intelligence gathering and reconnaissance missions. After successful weapons testing in 2004, it also supported combat operations, locating and engaging high-value targets. The MQ-1 saw extensive use in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan.
No, the final MQ-1B Predator retired from US Air Force service in 2018. After more than two decades of operations, the Predator fleet was phased out in favor of the larger, more capable MQ-9 Reaper.
The MQ-9 Reaper replaced the MQ-1B Predator. The Reaper is larger, carries 15 times more ordnance and cruises at roughly three times the speed. It has a more powerful turboprop engine compared to the Predator’s piston engine.
An MQ-1B Predator cost approximately $4 million per unit. This relatively low cost, combined with its effectiveness and no risk to pilots, made it an attractive option for reconnaissance and combat missions throughout its service life.
The MQ-1B had a maximum speed of 135 mph and a cruising speed of 84 mph. Powered by a 115-horsepower Rotax engine, it could reach a service ceiling of 25,000 feet and carry two AGM-114 Hellfire missiles.
Hill Air Force Base played a critical role in the MQ-1 program. In 2004, the Utah Test and Training Range evaluated the Predator’s combat capabilities with moving targets. The Ogden Air Logistics Complex at Hill Air Force Base also provided software development and sustainment support.
This specific MQ-1B flew over 1,600 combat missions during its service career. First flying on January 31, 2005, it accumulated 28,069 flight hours operating in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan before retiring in 2017.
This MQ-1B arrived at Hill Aerospace Museum in 2020 for static display. The aircraft is on loan from the US Air Force Heritage Program, which allows us to share the legacy of one of the first effective, unmanned, combat aerial vehicles.
