AQM-34A COMPASS DAWN [FIREBEE I]
The AQM-34A reconnaissance drone was developed from the earlier BQM-34A (formerly designated Q-2-C) jet-powered, subsonic target drone first produced in 1960. It is one of a series of remotely piloted vehicles (RPVs) used for combat reconnaissance during the Vietnam War. Ryan modified the basic Firebee target to fly autonomous, pre-programmed, long-range reconnaissance missions. Twenty-eight special purpose variants were ultimately developed to gather photographic, infrared and electronic intelligence information, to carry out electronic countermeasures, and to act as decoys in probing enemy defenses.
SPECIFICATIONS
Span: 13 ft.
Length: 29 ft.
Height: 6 ft. 8 in.
Weight: 3,200 lbs. loaded
Armament: None
Engine: Teledyne Continental J-69 of 1,920 lbs. thrust
PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed: 645 mph.
Stalling speed: 485 mph.
Range: 750 miles
Service Ceiling: 50,000 ft.
