General Atomics Rolls Out Sidekick Drone for MQ-9B Missions

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has introduced a new drone designed to back up MQ-9B operations, handling high-risk tasks like scouting, jamming, and precision strikes.

Named after the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes, “PELE” is meant to operate ahead of the MQ-9B, helping it navigate contested zones with less risk.

Measuring just 9 feet (2.74 meters) long with an 11-foot (3.35-meter) wingspan, the drone runs on a 16-horsepower engine and weighs 250 pounds (113 kilograms) at takeoff.

Read the full story on NextGen Defense: General Atomics Rolls Out Sidekick Drone for MQ-9B Missions