Lightweight hand-launched small UAV for short-range reconnaissance and surveillance, latest DDL variant adding a digital data link and improved endurance.
| Country | United States |
|---|---|
| Subcategory | Fixed-wing |
| Subtype | Small hand-launched UAV |
| Role | Reconnaissance |
| Class | Mini |
| Classification | UAV |
| Mission | ISR, reconnaissance |
| Datalink | Digital Data Link (DDL) |
| Variants | RQ-11A, RQ-11B, RQ-11B DDL, Solar Raven |
| MTOW (kg) | 1.9 |
| Operators | United States and allied nations |
| Frame type | Fixed-wing |
| Length (m) | 0.91 |
| Propulsion | Electric |
| Range (km) | 10 |
| Wingspan (m) | 1.37 |
| Combat-proven | Yes |
| Export status | Exported |
| Launch method | Hand-launched |
| Autonomy level | Semi-autonomous |
| Endurance (min) | 90 |
| Recovery method | Deep-stall autoland |
| Max speed (km/h) | 95 |
| Standard sensors | EO/IR cameras; IR illuminator |
| Production status | In production |
| Conflicts deployed in | Iraq, Afghanistan |
| Airframe / lift type | Fixed-wing |
| Control / autonomy level | Semi-autonomous (human-on-the-loop) |
| Domain | Aerial (UAV/UAS) |
| Mission / use case – military | ISR |
| Origin / supply chain | Military-grade |
| Propulsion | Electric (LiPo / Li-ion) |
| Range / endurance | Close range (5–50 km, 1–6 hrs) |
| Signature / detectability | RCS – nano/micro (<0.01 m²), RF-emitting |
| Speed regime | Medium (50–150 km/h) |
| Threat vector | Surveillance / reconnaissance |
| Weight / class | Class I – Micro (<2 kg), FAA <25 kg (Part 107) |