The Avenger UAS: A Controversial Test Asset with Potential for Monitoring Iran and Pakistan
Introduction
In December 2011, it was reported that the United States Air Force (USAF) had ordered an Avenger Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) to be deployed to Afghanistan. This advanced drone, developed by General Atomics, was touted as having superior speed, payload capacity, and stealth capabilities compared to its predecessor, the MQ-9 Reaper. However, the announcement sparked controversy and speculation regarding its intended use, particularly in relation to monitoring neighboring Iran and Pakistan. This article delves into the background of the Avenger, its capabilities, and the surrounding controversy.
The Avenger UAS: Capabilities and Advantages
The Avenger, designed by General Atomics, is a stealthy, jet-powered UAS with an internal weapons bay and four hardpoints on each wing. This design allows for greater flexibility and accommodation of a wide range of next-generation sensor and weapons payloads. According to the USAF, the aircraft would “provide a significantly increased weapons and sensors payload capacity on an aircraft that will be able to fly to targets much more rapidly than the MQ-9 [Reaper] UAS”. The Avenger’s unique features make it an attractive option for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, as well as for combat operations.
Deployment to Afghanistan and Controversy
The aircraft ordered in December 2011 was the original Tail 1 prototype version of the Avenger. This announcement sparked rumors that the UAS would be deployed to monitor neighboring Iran and Pakistan, primarily due to its stealth capabilities. The battlespace over Afghanistan is notably free of radar-guided missiles and other anti-aircraft weapons, making the deployment of a stealthy aircraft like the Avenger seem potentially unnecessary for operations within Afghanistan alone.
The timing of the announcement, coming just two weeks after the Iran-US RQ-170 incident, further fueled speculation. The Air Force responded to these allegations by clarifying that the purchase had been initiated in July of that year, well before the incident.
USAF Clarification and Testing Results
In response to the controversy, the USAF later clarified that the Avenger was being purchased solely as a test asset and would not be sent to Afghanistan. Discrepancies in the solicitation are believed to have caused the misinterpretation. After testing, the Air Force determined that the Avenger offered only modest improvements over the MQ-9 Reaper in terms of speed, payload, and reduced signature. Furthermore, it did not meet the survivability and reliability requirements necessary to survive in contested environments, warranting a new aircraft of this type.
The Avenger’s Potential Role in the Post-Taliban Afghanistan Scenario
Following the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, the United States lost access to airbases within the country necessary for striking targets in neighboring Pakistan. Given the increased distances from potential targets, General Atomics has pitched the Avenger to the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) as a better drone for the mission. The jet-powered Avenger can fly 1,800 mi (2,900 km) from its operating base and stay airborne for 18 hours, making it a potentially valuable asset for ISR and combat operations in the region.
Conclusion
The Avenger UAS, despite its initial controversy and limited improvements over the MQ-9 Reaper, still holds potential for monitoring Iran and Pakistan, particularly in light of the recent changes in Afghanistan. The drone’s extended range and stealth capabilities make it a candidate for future ISR and combat missions in the region. While the USAF has not made any official statements regarding the Avenger’s deployment, its potential utility in these challenging
