General Atomics MQ-20 Avenger (Predator C)

History of the General Atomics MQ-20 Avenger (Predator C)

The General Atomics Avenger, formerly known as "Predator C," is an advanced unmanned aerial system adopted by the U.S. military, showcasing cutting-edge drone technology. Evolving from its predecessors, the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper, the Avenger is a third-generation drone designed to surpass previous capabilities. Equipped with a powerful Pratt & Whitney PW545B series engine, it can reach speeds exceeding 460 mph and operate at altitudes of 60,000 feet, rivaling traditional military fighter jets. The drone's sleek and modern design, featuring a featureless front and a unique "Y" vertical tail arrangement, enhances its stealth capabilities, disrupting radar signals effectively.

The Avenger's significance lies in its potential to outclass existing Air Force capabilities, offering a more powerful and lethal profile than previous Predator models. Notably, its compatibility with the ground-based infrastructure used for Predator A and Predator B streamlines its integration into U.S. military operations. The drone's development represents a strategic advancement, incorporating a jet engine and emphasizing stealth, positioning it as a formidable asset for the military with extended endurance and the ability to carry out a variety of missions.

In addition to its technological advancements, the Avenger's visual characteristics, resembling the design principles of stealth aircraft like the F-22 and F-35, contribute to its modern and intimidating appearance. The drone's featureless fuselage, lack of a cockpit, and unique exhaust port design all contribute to its enhanced stealth capabilities, making it a valuable asset for the U.S. military in contemporary and future operational contexts.

Specification

Base

Year of Service: 2016

Origins: United States

Crew: 0

Production: 8

Manufacturer: General Atomics Aerospace Systems - USA

Roles

Ground attack (bombing, strafing)

The ability to conduct air strikes against ground targets using (but not limited to) artillery, bombs, rockets, rockets, etc.

Disable support (CAS)

Designed to operate near active ground elements with a wide range of air-to-surface weapon and ammunition options.

Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (ISR), reconnaissance

Monitor ground targets/target areas to assess surrounding threat levels, enemy strength, or enemy movement.

Special Forces

Serve special forces/special operations forces and missions.

Unmanned

Aircraft designed (or later developed) have inherent unmanned capabilities and can fill a variety of battlefield roles.

Dimensions and Weight

Length: 41.0 feet (12.50m)

Width/span: 66.0 ft (20.12m)

Cured weight; 10,251 lbs (4,650 kg)

MTOW: 18,199 lbs (8,255 kg)

Wgt Difference: +7,948 lbs (+3,605 kg)

Main aircraft structure

Monoplane: Designed to use a single main wing main aircraft; this is the most popular arrangement of main aircraft.

Shoulder: The main aircraft is mounted on the upper part of the fuselage, usually on an imaginary line that intersects the pilot's shoulders.

Sweep: The floor plan features a wing sweep along the leading edge of the main aircraft, which increases operating speed.

Performance

Installed: 1 x Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545B turbofan, 4,000 lbs thrust.

Maximum speed: 460 km/h (740 km/h | 400 knots)

Cruising speed: 404 km/h (650 km/h | 351 knots)

Maximum speed difference: +56 km/h (+90 km/h | 49 kn)

Maximum: 60,000 feet (18,288 m | 11 km)

Area: 3,626 km (5,835 km | 10,806 nautical miles)