Zombie Fighter Jet.... no, really!

Not really much of a story. The A has been using QF-4s (remotely piloted F-4s) to fly as aerial targets for decades, and quite simply -- they've shot 'em all down. Time for a new drone to provide "realistic" aerial targets.

What do they do? Provide releastic targets for our live missile shots. Most of the AF fighters get to participate in "Weapons System Evaluation Program" exercises, where they get to drop and shoot live munitions (perhaps for one of the few times in their entire flyign career for an air-to-air missile, unless we suddenly get into a real shooting war for air superiority in the future, heaven forbid). A VERY lucky few get to actually shoot their shots at one of these drones.

Of course, I've been giving all the Viper pilots I know a ton of grief over this, and can't WAIT for the first aerial photos of a F-16 in flames going down! (Sorry Stealth!) It's the little things in life we figher guys cherish! :thumb:
 
QF-16...

One expensive target....but the most maneuverable those far. I would like to try! (but I hate flying, thats why I fly a tug boat)

Push Hard, Press Forward
 
Interestingly, the NBC version didn't focus on (or even mention?) the notion that these were to be target drones.

Instead, Brian Williams talked about the speed achieved and that 6 more were scheduled to be converted. The clear slant of that NBC segment was that these were future replacements for live pilots.

Funny, how different media outlets can nuance a story. Never seen that before... :rolleyes:
 
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tug_boat said:
One expensive target....but the most maneuverable those far. I would like to try! (but I hate flying, thats why I fly a tug boat)

Push Hard, Press Forward
Click to expand...

"One Eagle, One Slammer..."

NO MO QF-16! :thumb:

Waiting for the photo!!!

Steve
USAFA ALO
USAFA '83
 
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