MQ-8B Fire Scout: Tactical Unmanned Power

The Fire Scout is a diesel- or JP8-powered unmanned helicopter that adds unmatched capability to the U.S. military. It combines a proven turboshaft engine and airframe with state-of-the-art electronics, which are able to provide targeting support and situational awareness. Officially known as a Vertical Takeoff and Landing Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle System (VTUAV), the program started back in February 2000 when Northrop Grumman won a U.S. Navy development contract. The Fire Scout MQ-8B is based on the Schweizer Model 333 manned helicopter. December 17, 2003 was the 100th anniversary of manned flight—on that day the unmanned Fire Scout made its 100th consecutive successful flight.

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MIL-SPEC: MQ-8B Fire Scout (VTUAV)

Manufacturer:Northrop Grumman (Moss Point, Mississippi)

Fuselage length (with dual payload nose):23.95 feet

Fuselage width:6.20 feet

Length (with blades folded forward):30.03 feet

Rotor Diameter:27.50 feet

Height (top of tail antenna):9.7 feet

Gross weight:3,150 pounds

Speed:More than 115 knots

Ceiling:20,000 feet

flight times:

with minimum payload:More than 8 hours

with Electro-optical, infrared image, and radar:More than 7 hours

with Maximum Payload:More than 5 hours

Engine:Model 250-C20W

Manufacturer:Rolls-Royce

Type:Turboshaft

Power:420 hp

Pressure ratio:7.2

Length:38.8 inches

Diameter:19 inches

Weight:158 pounds

Compressor:6hp + 1 centrifugal high-pressure

Turbine:2hp, 2PT (power turbine)