Pentagon orders 5GAT target UAVs the size of Su-57 fighter jets
Advanced Technology International has received an order from the Pentagon to produce target UAVs. According to the terms of the contract, the aircraft must simulate the capabilities of Su-57 and J-20 fighters.
According to The Drive, the contract amounted to USD 77.2 million. The cost of one drone the size of a Su-57 is unknown. Earlier, Sierra Technical Services, which has the status of a subcontractor, promised to assemble a target UAV worth up to USD 10 million. As a result, the Defense Ministry has placed an order for the supply of 7 5GAT simulator drones.
The 5GAT drone is an improved version of the previous prototype. It crashed during testing. The drone can carry payloads such as electronic warfare systems, various sensors, etc.
Target drones have been used by the US Air Force to train fighter pilots for quite some time. They allow for proper assessment of the latest weapons, including air-to-air missiles, as well as radars, countermeasures, and other attachments.
