Currently, many countries have developed various types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for different purposes, ranging from reconnaissance to combat. Currently, many countries have developed various types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for different purposes, ranging from reconnaissance to combat. However, evaluating the top UAVs in the world is not easy, as testing areas are often limited by political factors.
Furthermore, there may be UAVs that we are unaware of. For example, China—its UAVs are theoretically highly rated thanks to impressive technical specifications, but their effectiveness in actual combat remains an unanswered question.
For this reason, the list below by Thefactsofwar focuses on UAV models that have been used or are still participating in global conflicts.
S-70 Okhotnik UAV, Russia
The history of the S-70 Okhotnik began in August 2009, when it was reported that Sukhoi and Mig had collaborated to develop a heavy attack UAV. By July 2012, Sukhoi was confirmed as the main entity responsible for this project.
Development Process
- June 2018: The first prototype of the “Hunter” was unveiled.
- November 23, 2018: The UAV began runway testing, achieving speeds of 200 km/h.
- December 19, 2018: Russian Deputy Minister of Defense Alexei Krivoruchko confirmed the project was ready for its first flight.
Early 2019: Military experts identified a flying wing design image online as the Okhotnik UAV. On August 3, 2019, Okhotnik completed its first flight, lasting over 20 minutes, at an altitude of 600 meters under manual control, and landed successfully.
September 27, 2019: The Russian Ministry of Defense announced the first coordinated flight between Okhotnik and the Su-57 fighter jet, lasting over 30 minutes. The UAV operated autonomously, assisting the Su-57 in expanding radar range and identifying targets, enabling the fighter to use long-range weapons without entering enemy airspace.
Notable Features
The S-70 Okhotnik is designed with a flying wing configuration, using special materials and coatings that make it almost “invisible” to radar. This UAV is equipped with electro-optical, radio, and various other reconnaissance sensors.
In terms of artificial intelligence and autonomy, Okhotnik is considered a prototype for the sixth-generation fighter. However, weapon deployment decisions are still made by humans, not the UAVs itself.
During testing, the S-70’s electronics were also tested on the Su-57 model, showing compatibility between the two platforms.
Combat Application
The S-70 Okhotnik can coordinate with 20-30 other attack UAVs, protected by 2-3 mobile fighters, to cause significant damage to enemy infrastructure.
In addition to its coordination capabilities, the S-70 can use advanced weapons such as:
- The supersonic X-58 anti-radar missile with a range of 260 km.
- The subsonic X-35 cruise missile for attacking naval targets.
- 4 upgraded X-74M2 supersonic missiles and 8 KAB-250 guided bombs.
With stealth, reconnaissance, and strike capabilities, Okhotnik is not only a major leap in Russia’s UAV technology but also an important foundation for the development of next-generation combat systems. The combination of S-70 and Su-57 promises to create highly effective ground combat strategies.
Bayraktar TB2, Turkey
The Bayraktar TB2 is a reconnaissance and attack UAV developed by Baykar Makina, a Turkish company. Currently, this UAV is being used by the Turkish Army. Bayraktar TB2 is a tactical UAV that operates at medium altitude with long endurance, developed from the Bayraktar Block B version with more advanced software and control systems than Israel’s Heron UAV.
According to international media, the Turkish Army has ordered three UAV systems based on the Bayraktar TB2, which include six UAVs, two ground control stations, and associated power sources and maintenance equipment. Each operational team consists of a commander, pilot, and payload controller.
The Bayraktar TB2 is equipped with a Rotax 912 engine producing 100 horsepower, reaching a maximum speed of 250 km/h and a cruising speed of 130 km/h. Its maximum operating altitude is 7,300 meters, with a fuselage made from composite materials to reduce weight and increase durability. The UAV also features an automatic take-off and landing system, ensuring safety and precision during operations.
- Length: 6.5 meters.
- Wingspan: 12 meters.
- Range: 150 km.
- Maximum takeoff weight: 650 kg.
- Maximum payload weight: 55 kg.
The Bayraktar TB2 is equipped with various cameras and surveillance systems, making it effective for reconnaissance missions. Additionally, it can carry two guided anti-tank missiles or laser-guided MAM-L and MAM-C guided munitions.
- MAM-L is a laser-guided modification of the long-range L-UMTAS anti-tank missile system. Unlike using a rocket engine, MAM-L is equipped with wings to glide, allowing the UAV to strike targets accurately from afar without causing unintended damage.
In a December 2015 test, Bayraktar TB2 successfully launched a precision-guided SMM bomb from an altitude of 4,800 meters, hitting a 3×3 meter target at a distance of 8 km. This achievement demonstrated the UAV’s high accuracy in attack missions.
Bayraktar TB2 set a world record for flight time in its UAV category during a test flight in June and August 2014, reaching an altitude of 8 km and lasting 24 hours and 34 minutes.
In 2018, an agreement was signed to supply Bayraktar TB2 to the Ukrainian military, marking a major step in Turkey’s UAV export efforts. Bayraktar TB2 has not only proven effective in reconnaissance and attack missions but also demonstrated significant advancement in Turkish UAV technology. With its high combat performance, modern features, and export potential, Bayraktar TB2 has become a symbol of development in the global UAV field.
Q-9 Reaper Predator B, USA
The MQ-9 Reaper, also known as Predator B, is an upgraded version of the successful multi-role RQ/MQ-1 Predator UAV, developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI). The Predator B project began in 1998 as a private initiative, partially funded by NASA. Its first test flight took place in February 2001.
The Predator B is larger than the RQ/MQ-1 Predator. A key difference is the traditional V-tail with a positive angle. GA-ASI tested the Predator B with two different engine types:
- Turbofan Honeywell TPE-331-10T.
- Williams FJ44-2A turbojet.
The Predator B is equipped with almost identical systems as the RQ/MQ-1, including:
- Raytheon AN/ASS-52(V) infrared-optical targeting system.
- General Atomics AN/APY-8 Lynx synthetic aperture radar.
The Predator B is capable of multi-role combat with weapons like the AGM-114C/K Hellfire anti-tank missiles and other guided munitions. The UAV’s control systems are compatible with the MQ-1B’s ground station.
fter successful trials with the armed version of the RQ-1, the idea of deploying the Predator B in combat was realized. In February 2003, the combat version of the Predator B was designated MQ-9A Reaper. Later that year, the U.S. Air Force purchased two prototype YMQ-9A units for military testing. The YMQ-9A demonstrated superior performance compared to the RQ/MQ-1. The UAV can operate continuously for 24 hours at an altitude of 13,700 meters, with a maximum flight time of up to 30 hours, according to GA-ASI.
The MQ-9 Reaper is classified as a “hunter-killer” UAV of the U.S. Air Force, capable of tracking and eliminating targets. Some notable features include:
- Weapons: The MQ-9 can carry up to 14 Hellfire missiles, whereas the Predator can only carry two. Additionally, the MQ-9 can be equipped with 4 AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and 2 GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs (250 kg each).
- Performance: The UAV can operate continuously for 14 hours with a full payload, reaching a maximum speed of 480 km/h, far surpassing the Predator’s 215 km/h.
On May 18, 2006, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted certification allowing the MQ-1 and MQ-9 to operate in U.S. civil airspace.
A version of the MQ-9 Reaper UAV, called “Mariner,” is being developed for the U.S. Navy. This version will feature foldable wings and a larger fuel capacity, allowing for continuous flight for up to 49 hours.
In August 2008, the U.S. Air Force completed the re-equipping of its first combat squadron (174th Fighter Wing of the National Guard) with MQ-9 Reapers. This process took three years. The MQ-9 has proven highly effective in campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq, offering several advantages:
- Lower acquisition and operational costs compared to F-16 fighters.
- Longer flight times, ensuring continuous surveillance.
- Enhanced safety compared to fighter pilots in high-risk combat zones.
By 2009, the U.S. Air Force had 195 MQ-1 Predator UAVs and 28 MQ-9 Reaper UAVs in its fleet. The MQ-9 Reaper is not only an excellent combat UAV, but it also laid the foundation for the development of future combat UAVs.
Heron TP, Israel
The IAI Heron, also known as Heron 1, is a medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) UAV designed for high-altitude flight and long-duration operations. It is primarily used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and other specialized tasks. Heron can operate continuously for up to 45 hours at altitudes of up to 10,700 meters. The latest version of the UAV series, the Heron TP (also known as Eitan), is a larger model equipped with a more powerful engine. The first flight of Heron took place on October 18, 1994.
Heron is equipped with a navigation system that receives signals from satellite-based positioning systems (SNS), allowing it to operate autonomously for much of its flight time. The UAV operates in several modes:
- Fully Autonomous: Heron can take off and land without human intervention.
- Semi-Autonomous: The operator can intervene at certain stages of the mission.
- Return to Base Mode: In case of lost communication with the ground control station, Heron has the ability to return to its base safely.
Heron is designed to carry various specialized payloads such as electro-optical systems, infrared sensors, radio reconnaissance equipment, and compact radar for tasks like:
- Artillery fire correction.
- Additional reconnaissance of pre-designated targets.
Heron is equipped with modern systems such as:
- MOSP (Multimission Optronic Stabilized Payload): A stabilized optical and infrared system that allows real-time data transmission.
- EL/M-2055 SAR/MTI: Synthetic aperture radar for reconnaissance.
- EL/M-2022U Maritime Patrol Radar: Maritime patrol radar for naval operations.
The fully digitized control system with two-way data transmission capability, compatible with the Searcher II UAV, allows the Heron to operate flexibly in a variety of environments. The GCS-3000 ground control station, used for the Hunter UAV, is also used to control the Heron.
Heron has been successfully used in military operations, such as in Gaza during 2008-2009. Several improved versions of Heron have been adopted by countries including:
- Australia, Brazil, Canada, Ecuador, Germany, India, Turkey, and the United States.
- France: Used the Harfang version, developed from the Heron by EADS.
Heron UAVs have been further improved for specific purposes, such as maritime patrol (Eagle MPR) or upgraded with Pratt & Whitney PT6 engines for improved flight performance (Eagle 2). Notably, Turkey’s Heron UAVs are equipped with electro-optical systems developed domestically.
Heron TP is not just a versatile and effective UAV; it also represents Israel’s advanced drone technology. With its long endurance, modern equipment, and high degree of automation, Heron TP has become a top choice for many countries, contributing to enhanced combat and reconnaissance capabilities in modern warfare.
GAAS Avenger Predator C, USA
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GAAS), the developer of the renowned Predator UAV series used by the U.S. military, introduced the improved Predator C Avenger version in 2009. This UAV is designed for deployment from aircraft carriers, offering significant potential for specialized military missions.
- Size: The Avenger is approximately 10 meters in length (with the second prototype expected to add at least 0.5 meters). The payload bay is 3 meters long and can carry two GBU-38 JDAM bombs (220 kg) equipped with laser guidance.
- Payload: Similar to Predator B, the Avenger can carry up to 1,000 kg of weapons and sensors. When stealth is not a requirement, weapons can be mounted externally on the body or wings. Additionally, the payload bay can be equipped with extra fuel tanks to extend flight time by 2 more hours.
Avenger has been designed with numerous enhancements to improve surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities:
- LYNX SAR Synthetic Aperture Radar: Provides operational capability in all weather conditions, typically mounted on the underside of the UAV.
- New EO/IR Reconnaissance System: A streamlined system replacing the traditional rotating system seen on the Predator series.
- AFAR (Active Phased Array Radar): Integrated into the UAV’s belly, ensuring smooth operation without signal interference.
- Stealth Features: The Avenger has a V-shaped tail to reduce radar reflection and minimize the infrared signature from engine exhaust. The exhaust system is designed in an S-shape and cooled to make the UAV harder to detect by radar and thermal sensors.
- Wings and Body
- The Avenger has a 17-degree angled wing design with a 20-meter wingspan, offering aerodynamic advantages similar to classic stealth designs like the B-22 and B-2 bombers. The wing edges are tapered to reduce radar reflection, keeping the radar signature as minimal as possible.
- The beveled edges on the aircraft’s body help reduce the radar cross-sectional area, keeping the radar signature as small as possible
- The thicker wing section at the trailing edge ensures the necessary durability when landing on an aircraft carrier and contains additional fuel.
- Engine: The Avenger is powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545B engine, capable of reaching speeds of at least 740 km/h, with a service ceiling of 18,000 meters. GAAS expects further improvements in speed through ongoing refinements.
- Flight Time: The aircraft is designed with balanced fuel distribution across the fuselage and wings, ensuring long flight endurance.
The Avenger is designed with folding wings, making it suitable for storage in hangars or on aircraft carriers. A tail hook system supports carrier landings, signaling the potential for future naval integration.
The U.S. Navy has expressed interest in the Avenger, but is still hesitant about integrating a propeller-driven UAV into its carrier fleet. Nevertheless, with its advanced design, surveillance, and attack capabilities, the Avenger holds the potential to become a key component of modern naval strategy.
Avenger is not just a stealth multi-role UAV but also integrates advanced technologies such as radar systems, sensors, and optimized aerodynamics. With the ability to operate in both combat zones and from aircraft carriers, the Avenger represents the future generation of UAVs, meeting the stringent requirements of modern military forces.
Conclusion
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are reshaping the way wars are fought and are bringing huge advantages in surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strikes. UAV technology is gradually becoming central to the military strategy of all nations, improving defense and attack capabilities with superior efficiency.
Through this article by Thefactsofwar, we hope readers have gained a comprehensive understanding of some of the most advanced UAV models in the world. Stay tuned with us to explore more fascinating stories about military technology and the latest trends in modern weaponry.
