General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), the industry leader in unmanned aerial systems from the Predator® to the YFQ-42A Collaborative Combat Aircraft, has revealed PELE – Precision Exportable Launched Effect, a compact, multi-role uncrewed system aimed at expanding mission capabilities for global defense users.
Drawing its name from Pele, the Hawaiian goddess symbolizing natural power, PELE is an attrition-tolerant, propeller-driven UAV designed to extend the surveillance and operational reach of manned or unmanned mothership platforms. This semi-autonomous UAS has an 11-foot wingspan, a 16-horsepower engine, and is engineered for both airborne and ground launches.
PELE is tailored to integrate with the MQ-9B SkyGuardian®, one of the world’s most advanced medium-altitude, long-endurance UAVs currently in service or under consideration by multiple international defense forces. PELE can carry an electro-optical infrared sensor for live video and other critical mission payloads within its internal bays.
In operational scenarios, MQ-9B could deploy PELE near contested borders to conduct reconnaissance, detect enemy positions, or pinpoint anti-air defenses. PELE offers an endurance of 7 hours, a maximum takeoff weight of 250 pounds, and an impressive range of 500 nautical miles, delivering valuable tactical reach in denied environments.
