General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), globally recognized for pioneering unmanned aircraft from the Predator® to the YFQ-42A Collaborative Combat Aircraft, has launched a new compact uncrewed system with broad multi-mission applications for the international aerospace and defense community.
The system, known as PELE (Precision Exportable Launched Effect), is named after Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of powerful natural elements. PELE is a lightweight, cost-effective, propeller-driven UAV that enhances the sensing and operational range of its mothership and can also be launched from ground-based platforms. Designed with semi-autonomous capabilities, PELE features an 11-foot wingspan and a 16-horsepower engine, making it highly adaptable in complex mission environments.
Optimized for deployment from the MQ-9B SkyGuardian®, a leading medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft, PELE can carry onboard sensors such as an electro-optical infrared system for real-time video, along with additional mission payloads stowed internally.
A typical mission might involve the MQ-9B releasing PELE near a contested area, allowing it to enter and survey restricted zones to map enemy positions or precisely locate air defense threats. PELE is 9 feet long, with a maximum takeoff weight of 250 pounds, a 7-hour endurance, and a range capability of 500 nautical miles.
