Navy uses Fire Scout as missile spotter

A Navy MQ-8B Fire Scout unmanned helicopter has been used to designate targets for missiles fired by manned helicopters.

The Fire Scout used its laser designator to paint a target for a Hellfire missile fired by an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter, according to a Navy news release.

"For the mission, the MH-60S launched from Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island, while the Northrup Grumman MQ-8B Fire Scout was operated from NAS Point Mugu," the Navy said. "The shot took place on a designated live-fire range off the coast of NAS Point Mugu against a dynamic target, which moved at approximately 10-15 knots. The Fire Scout detected target location and was transmitted to the MH-60S for targeting. Once all target requirements were met, the Fire Scout lased the target while the MH-60S moved forward and into position for the running missile shot."

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