General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), the global leader in unmanned aircraft innovation—from the Predator® to the YFQ-42A Collaborative Combat Aircraft—has launched a next-generation small unmanned system known as PELE, featuring wide-ranging mission versatility.
PELE, short for Precision Exportable Launched Effect, draws its name from the Hawaiian goddess of volcanic force and is built as a lightweight, propeller-driven unmanned aircraft system that enhances the capabilities of its carrier platform. Designed for semi-autonomous operations, PELE has an 11-foot wingspan, a 16-horsepower engine, and is suitable for deployment in highly contested environments. It can also be launched from ground platforms if required.
The system is specifically tailored to integrate with the MQ-9B SkyGuardian®, one of the leading medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicles globally in service or under consideration by several nations. PELE can be outfitted with electro-optical infrared sensors and internal payloads for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
In practical terms, the MQ-9B could release PELE at the edge of a contested zone, allowing it to penetrate sensitive airspace, detect enemy positions, and geo-locate air defense threats. PELE is 9 feet long, with a 250-pound maximum takeoff weight, a 7-hour endurance window, and a range of up to 500 nautical miles.
