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The RQ-3 Dark Star unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was operated by the US Air Force. Its first flight was in 1996, and the program was cancelled in 1999.
The industry trade magazine Aviation Week & Space Technology, which is generally considered to be accurate, reported in April, 2003 that the RQ-3 was still in development, but had become a black project. The size and capabilites had increased somewhat. The magazine further alleged that the first such example had been used in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. There has been no independent confirmation.
The "R" is the Department of Defense designation for reconnaissance; "Q" means unmanned aircraft system. The "3" refers to it being the third of a series of purpose-built unmanned reconnaissance aircraft systems. See also RQ-1 Predator, RQ-2 Pioneer, RQ-4 Global Hawk, RQ-5 Hunter, RQ-6 Outrider, and RQ-7 Shadow.
General Characteristics
- Primary Function: Reconnaissance
- Contractor: Lockheed Martin Skunkworks, Palmdale CA
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