Armed Forces News

The Air Force has announced plans to retire the MQ-1 Predator remotely piloted aircraft, after 21 years in service. The MQ-9 Reaper will assume Predator’s mission. The newer aircraft offers a wider palate of mission capabilities, is faster, and carries more sophisticated sensors and greater munitions payloads. The Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo- based 20th Attack Squadron is one unit now converting to the MQ-9 from the MQ-1. The transition should be complete by July 1.