The MQ-1 Predator drone, operational from 1995 until ... According to Sweeny, becoming a certified drone operator involves completing foundational training. “You have to be a qualified aircraft ...

The MQ-1's capabilities make it uniquely qualified to conduct irregular warfare operations in support of combatant commander objectives. The Predator is part of a remotely piloted aircraft system.

In 2002, what was called the RQ-1 was redesignated MQ-1 after the Predator was given ... a pilot and a sensor operator, and ...