Predator B passes NATO design review

The Predator B is one step closer to meeting the NATO Airworthiness Standard for UAVs.

The Predator B has completed a successful internal Phase 1 Critical Design Review (CDR), along with reviews by two prospective European customers, according to a General Atomics news release. Flights tests are scheduled for 2016, followed by a certifiable production aircraft in 2017.

General Atomics is focusing on detect and avoid capabilities. "Completion of this first CDR is the culmination of several years of review of requirements and design compliance with the certification agencies," said Linden Blue, CEO, GA-ASI. "The company also has made a significant investment to solve issues associated with flying RPA within civilian airspace. Certifiable Predator B will represent the first RPA system in its class to achieve this breakthrough."

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