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Library > Fact Sheets > RQ-11B Raven Small Remotely Piloted Aircraft
RQ-11B RAVEN SMALL REMOTELY PILOTED AIRCRAFT
Mission
The RQ-11B Raven Small Remotely Piloted Aircraft provides real-time direct situational awareness and target information for Air Force Special Operations Command Battlefield Airmen and Air Force Security Forces. The Raven falls into the class of Air Force small RPA known as man-portable RPA.
Features
The Raven RPA is a man-portable system, which features two Air Vehicles (AV), a Ground Control Unit, Remote Video Terminal, transit cases, and support equipment. Two specially trained Airmen operate the Raven AV. The AV can be controlled manually or can autonomously navigate a preplanned route. Raven includes a color electro-optical camera and an infrared camera for night operations.
Background
The Raven has proven itself in combat supporting U.S. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and other areas of conflict. The Raven is now used by all services. Air Force Security Forces are currently purchasing Raven RPAs to replace its aging Desert Hawk RPAs.
General Characteristics
Primary Function: Day/night reconnaissance and surveillance with low altitude operation
Contractor: Aerovironment
Power Plant: Electric Motor, rechargeable lithium ion batteries
Wingspan: 4.5 ft (1.37 meters)
Weight: 4.2 lbs (1.9 kilograms)
GCU weight: 17 lbs (7.7 kilograms)
Speed: 30-60 mph (26-52 knots)
Range: 8-12 km (4.9-7.45 miles)
Endurance: 60-90 minutes
Operating Altitude: Altitude: 12,500 ft Normal Ops: 100-500 ft Air Ground Level (AGL)
System Cost: $ ~173,000 (2004 dollars)
Payload: High resolution, day / night camera and thermal imager
Point of Contact
Air Force Special Operations Command, Public Affairs Office, 229 Cody Ave., Suite 103; Hurlburt Field, FL 32544-5312; DSN 579-5515 or (850) 884-5515; e-mail: afsoc.pa@hurlburt.af.mil
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