SAN DIEGO, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- The second prototype of a jet-powered unmanned aircraft system has been successfully flown in California.
The Predator C Avenger by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. can carry up to 3,500 pounds internally and bombs on its wing hardpoints.
"The first flight of our second Avenger aircraft is a significant achievement as it refines the first prototype design to an operational capability," said Frank Pace, president, Aircraft Systems Group, GA-ASI. "Avenger provides the right capabilities for the right cost at the right time and is operationally ready today.
"This aircraft offers unique advantages in terms of performance, cost, timescale, and adaptability that are unmatched by any other UAS in its class."
During the flight, all performance objectives were met, the company said, but additional details weren't provided.
The Predator C Avenger is 44 feet long, can fly at more than 460 miles per hour, has an endurance capability of more than 16 hours and a maximum altitude of 60,000 feet.
Avionics aboard the aircraft are based on those used aboard the Predator B/MQ-9 Reaper.
The first prototype flew last month and the company said two other prototypes are under construction.
