Armed Forces News

The Avenger ER (extended range) unmanned aerial vehicle completed its first successful test flight Oct. 27. The aircraft is an upgrade of the Predator C, and is capable of carrying a 3,000-pound payload for as long as 20 hours, with speeds that can exceed 400 knots. Its manufacturer, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc., stated that the Avenger is capable of ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) and precision-strike missions. It boasts a larger wingspan than the Predator, at 76 feet, and can carry 2,200 additional pounds of fuel as well.