Predator reaches IOC

Published March 1, 2005

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (ACCNS) -- One of the most heavily used and valued weapons system platforms of the Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom has reached Initial Operating Capability, according to officials at Air Combat Command.

The MQ-1 Predator unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was officially declared IOC March 1 by Lieutenant General William Fraser III, ACCs vice commander. The milestone was reached after the MQ-1 completed eleven requirements covering issues including: supportability, training, maintainability, maintenance depot stand-up, and aircraft and parts availability.

Initially fielded as the RQ-1, an advanced concept technology demonstration (ACTD), the Predator was first used in the Balkan theater in the mid-1990s, where it operated over Bosnia as early as 1995. Over time, the aircraft has undergone various upgrades to improve its combat effectiveness. The MQ-1 is equipped with advanced sensors and armed with AGM-114 Hellfire missiles.

The IOC declaration indicates the MQ-1 has completed its testing and achieved predetermined capability and supportability thresholds, and continues on its path to achieving full operational capability.

For more information, contact the Air Combat Command Public Affairs office at (757) 764-5007 or e-mail acc.pam@langley.af.mil.