The Predator C Avenger is an advanced, next-generation unmanned aircraft system (UAS) designed for high-speed, long-endurance multi-mission operations over land and sea. Developed by GA-ASI with internal funding, Avenger builds on the proven Predator B-series lineage while incorporating a jet engine for significantly enhanced performance and survivability in contested environments.
Avenger first flew in April 2009, with an extended range variant (Avenger ER) making its maiden flight in October 2016 before completing its flight test program in 2017. The ER version features an expanded wingspan of 76 feet and increased fuel capacity, extending its endurance beyond 20 hours.
Capable of operating at speeds of 400 KTAS and altitudes above 50,000 feet, the Avenger provides quick-response armed reconnaissance, wide-area surveillance, and time-sensitive strike capabilities. It is designed to augment existing Low Density High Demand (LDHD) aircraft with long range RADAR, Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), communication relay payloads or weapons. In a contested environment the Avenger platform can penetrate Weapon Engagement Zones (WEZ) of adversary Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (SAMs) without risking human life, or fly with long range sensors outside of the WEZ of even the longest range, strategic SAMs.
Design & Features
The Avenger’s streamlined design and jet propulsion system provide a major leap in unmanned aircraft performance. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PW545B turbofan engine, generating over 5,000 pounds of thrust, it requires less than 5,000 feet of runway for takeoff. The engine is designed for high fuel efficiency, contributing to its long-endurance mission capability.
The Avenger ER variant includes additional fuel storage within its extended 76-ft wingspan, further improving endurance. The aircraft integrates stealth-enhancing features, such as an internal weapons bay, reducing its radar cross-section. It also features six external hardpoints, enabling the carriage of additional weapons or sensor payloads.
The Avenger shares common avionics and control systems with the Predator B-series, allowing full interoperability with GA-ASI’s Ground Control Stations (GCS). The system’s low operational cost combined with its high-altitude persistence makes it an efficient asset for long-range ISR and strike missions.
Payload & Armament
Avenger is a multi-role platform, equipped with modular payload configurations that allow for a wide range of ISR and combat missions.
Weapons Capabilities:
- Hellfire missiles
- GBU-12/49, GBU-31, GBU-32, GBU-38 JDAM
- GBU-39, GBU-16/48
- Internal weapons bay (3,000 lbs capacity)
Sensor & ISR Payloads:
- Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor
- Lynx® Multi-Mode Radar
- Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) / Electronic Support Measures (ESM) systems
- Communications relay
Performance & Mission Capabilities
The Predator C Avenger is built for rapid response, high-speed transit, and enhanced mission flexibility. With triple-redundant avionics and dual-redundant flight controls, it provides high reliability even in demanding operational environments.
- Maximum Altitude: >50,000 feet
- Maximum Speed: 400 KTAS (standard dash: 350 KTAS)
- Maximum Endurance: 20+ hours
- Total Payload Capacity: 6,500 lbs (internal: 3,500 lbs)
- Fuel Capacity: 7,900 lbs
The aircraft is also transportable via C-5/C-17 or can self-deploy, making it highly flexible for global operations.
