Compact, hand-launched UAV designed for short-range reconnaissance and battlefield surveillance, featuring autonomous GPS-based navigation.

# RQ-14 Dragon Eye: Lightweight UAV for Tactical Reconnaissance

The RQ-14 Dragon Eye is a compact, hand-launched unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed for short-range surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Designed primarily for the United States Marine Corps, this small tactical UAV provides front-line units with real-time intelligence to enhance situational awareness and support rapid decision-making in combat environments.

The Dragon Eye features a rugged and portable design, making it easy for soldiers to carry and deploy in the field. It is typically hand-launched or catapult-launched, allowing for rapid setup and quick operational readiness. The UAV uses autonomous GPS-based navigation combined with pre-programmed waypoints, reducing operator workload and ensuring precise flight paths during missions.

Equipped with a lightweight electro-optical camera, the Dragon Eye transmits live video to ground control stations, enabling troops to monitor threats, scout terrain, and identify enemy positions from a safe distance. Its low acoustic signature and compact structure make it highly suitable for covert operations in hostile environments.

The RQ-14 Dragon Eye is primarily employed for:

• Battlefield reconnaissance

• Route and area surveillance

• Force protection and threat detection

Recovery is achieved through a belly landing on open terrain, eliminating the need for specialized equipment. With its ease of use, portability, and reliable performance, the RQ-14 Dragon Eye remains an effective solution for short-range ISR missions in tactical settings.

Trusted for its simplicity and operational efficiency, the Dragon Eye continues to play a vital role in supporting military units with actionable intelligence in real time.