The MQ-1 Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) received its certification of Initial Operating Capability on March 1. The declaration indicates that the Predator has completed its testing and reached certain capability and supportability thresholds, and has become more than an Advanced Technology Demonstrator.
In related news, Predator drones continue to be part of the surveillance mix currently flying over Iran as "UFOs," along with the Global Hawk, I-Gnat, and other UAVs that have been rushed into service. Over at Defense Industry Daily, I also have an article covering the tiny 3-foot long Raven UAV, which is finding its niche with smaller units in Iraq. You have to like them when the 1st Cavalry not only raves about them, but confesses that one of their best UAV pilots is a cook.
Aviation Week & Space Technology has an excellent article that discusses UAV operations in the Middle East, and lists many of the procurement and funding initiatives involved. For a wider-angle look at the USA's multi-billion dollar UAV plans, this June 2004 Sea Power article offers a fine overview.
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