General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has introduced a new drone designed to back up MQ-9B operations, handling high-risk tasks like scouting, jamming, and precision strikes.
Named after the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes, “PELE” is meant to operate ahead of the MQ-9B, helping it navigate contested zones with less risk.
Measuring just 9 feet (2.74 meters) long with an 11-foot (3.35-meter) wingspan, the drone runs on a 16-horsepower engine and weighs 250 pounds (113 kilograms) at takeoff.
It can fly for up to 7 hours and cover 500 nautical miles (575 miles or 926 kilometers), allowing it to support long-range missions.
GA-ASI describes PELE as a small, attrition-tolerant drone designed to extend the reach of larger platforms. “PELE brings even more versatility to growing MQ-9B fleets around the world,” said company president David R. Alexander.
Built to Take the Hit
PELE is part of GA-ASI’s broader push to deploy affordable, mission-flexible drones that can fly in swarms and confuse enemy defenses.
Its modular design allows for mid-air adjustments and supports a wide range of payloads, including electro-optical infrared sensors for full-motion video and other internal mission systems.
By flying ahead of the MQ-9B, PELE absorbs frontline risks and shields the more valuable aircraft, allowing it to stay in the fight longer.
Alexander said PELE gives operators more flexibility by taking on the riskiest parts of the mission, keeping the main drone focused where it matters.
“One day, an air force might fly an MQ-9B with no external payloads to maximize its patrol time,” he explained. “Then on the next day, the same aircraft could take off and fly with several PELEs that would stand in against the adversary and take the immediate risks to preserve the larger aircraft.”
GA-ASI is positioning PELE as a rapidly deployable solution for fast-changing combat environments.
