U.S. Air Force Fact Sheet DESERT HAWK SMALL UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM Mission The Desert Hawk Small Unmanned Aircraft System or UAS provides real-time overhead video imagery for Air Force security forces providing force protection, air base defense and convoy protection. Desert Hawk is part of the integrated base defense system. Features The Desert Hawk UAS features six air vehicles or AVs, a ground control station, remote video terminal, day-night camera capability, transportation cases, launch equipment and ground spares and equipment. A two-person crew using a bungee-cord catapult system launches the Desert Hawk. Desert Hawk can be autonomously flown using a laptop computer with dynamic re-tasking and on-demand manual steering override. A two-bladed propeller driven by an electric motor powers the Desert Hawk. Background Developed by Lockheed Martin, Desert Hawk's original concept was to provide a ring of protection around air bases at forward locations for Air Force security forces. In July 2002, systems were delivered to the Air Force as part of the Force Protection Airborne Surveillance System requirement. Desert Hawk was rapidly fielded to support security forces deployed in U. S. Central Command's area of operations. It has proven its worth supporting not only Air Force assets but also Army forces involved in convoy protection and base defense. General Characteristics Primary Function: Real-time force protection and reconnaissance, and perimeter assessment Contractor: Lockheed Martin Power Plant: Electric motor, rechargeable lithium ion batteries Wingspan: 4.3 feet (1.31 meters) Length: 2 feet 10 in (.8 meters) Weight: (aerial vehicle) 7 lbs (3.2 kilograms) Speed: 35-55 mph (30-48 knots) Operating Altitude: 200-1000 ft air ground level (AGL) (60-300meters) Initial Operating Capability: 2002 System Cost: approximately $224,000 (2004 dollars) Payload: High resolution, day/night camera and thermal imager  Inventory: Classified Point of Contact Air Force Special Operations Command, Public Affairs Office; 229 Cody Ave.; Hurlburt Field, Fla. 32544-5273; DSN 579-5515 or 850-884-5515. November 2007