Eye in the Sky Logs Record Hours

Courtesy Photo | The "Shadow" launches on another daytime mission. The 172nd SBCT uses the Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle to gather combat mission intelligence. (Army photo/Capt. Michael Blankartz)  

MOSUL, IRAQ

02.15.2006

Courtesy Story

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Story and photo by Capt. Michael Blankartz
172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Public Affairs Officer

MOSUL, Iraq (9 Feb. 2006) -- Since the 1950's, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles have been used by the U.S. Military for reconnaissance and intelligence gathering. The 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team uses a Tactical UAV, referred to as the "Shadow", to support tactical commanders with near-real-time imagery intelligence for their combat missions.

Recently, the TUAV Platoon, Delta Troop, 14th Cavalry, 172nd SBCT, recorded more than 2000 flight hours accident-free and continues adding on hours. They passed the 1000-hour mark in November 2005.

"Reaching the 1000 hour flight mark as quickly as we did showed the commitment and dedication of this platoon," said Capt. Justin Doty, TUAV Platoon Leader. "Now that we have reached more than 2000 hours, it is just awesome."

The "Shadow" is controlled from a ground control station. The aircraft is 11 feet long with a 14-foot wingspan. It weighs approximately 375 pounds. It is equipped with a camera that can record intelligence during day and night flight operations.

A pressurized launcher launches the "Shadow". It has an automated landing system that brings the aircraft down on a pre-determined touchdown point and uses a tail hook and arresting gear, along with a back up safety net, to bring the aircraft to a complete stop.

"To provide the SBCT with continuous coverage and without incident is our goal, and right now we are accomplishing that," said Doty.

• Date Taken: 02.15.2006
• Date Posted: 02.15.2006 16:28
• Story ID: 5397
• Location: MOSUL, IQ