Q2A Drone Target

The Q2A/C targets were the first unmanned drone targets used by the Navy at WSMR starting in 1959. They provided a sub-sonic target and were engaged at altitudes of 30,000 ft. to 50,000 ft. Ground launched using a JATO type booster, they were often equipped with countermeasure (electronic jamming) devices. These targets were parachute recoverable and were often repaired and flown for more than one mission. The Q2A/C targets were developed by Ryan Aeronautical Co. at San Diego, CA and were the first of the Firebee family of remote piloted vehicles which have been used by the military for many decades.

Photo from the George Helfrich Collection