DRS RQ-15 Neptune explained
The
DRS RQ-15 Neptune is a reconnaissance UAV developed in the United States in the early years of the 21st century. The design is optimized for operations over water, and is capable of water landings on its
flying boat–like hull. The 11.2 kW (15 hp) pusher engine is mounted high to keep it dry during takeoffs and landings. The Neptune can also be launched off a pneumatic catapult and land on a skid. In 2007, one was unsuccessfully launched off the
USS Nashville (LPD-13), crashing into the water less than two seconds after lift off.
Design
The most remarkable design element is the double vertical stabilizer with the piston engine housed inbetween. This arrangement reduces the infrared signature from the side-to-rear view.
References
This article contains material that originally came from the web article Unmanned Aerial Vehicles by Greg Goebel, which exists in the public domain.
