Reconnaissance squadron's Predators keep vigilant eye on Iraq Published Jan. 25, 2008 By Tech. Sgt. Phyllis Hanson 407th Air Expeditionary Group Public Affairs ALI BASE, Iraq -- Taking center stage in helping win the war on terrorism in Iraq are unmanned aerial vehicles such as the MQ-1 Predator. Although the plane is small compared to the F-16 Fighting Falcon, it packs a punch with its vigilant purpose and silent victories. Since October 2007, the 361st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron's two-man crews have successfully flown more than 300 sorties, helping to put a foothold on terrorist activities in Iraq. "We have made some close liaisons with the Army here on base and have helped them in a few very successful operations recently," said Maj. Keven Gambold, 361st ERS commander and Royal Air Force exchange officer deployed from the 15th Reconnaissance Squadron, Creech Air Force Base, Nev. The Predator cockpit never leaves the ground but has many of the same features as an airborne one. The cockpit is called a ground control station and houses <<080110-F-4127S-115.jpg>> the pilots, sensor operators and equipment necessary to control the aircraft remotely. The remotely piloted Predator soars like a bird seeking its prey. Cruising along at between 80 and 100 mph, the medium-altitude, long-endurance plane can hover for nearly a day collecting data - perhaps of a terrorist network - as it tracks the deadly deeds of the enemy. The 361st ERS is looked at as the launch and recovery crew, but they also accomplish base-defense missions by looking for indirect fire and conducting convoy overwatch. "After take-off we check out the laser and other aircraft systems then coordinate with the U.S. chaps (Airmen at Creech AFB) to 'grab' the plane from us when it's at the right height and going the right way for them," said Major Gambold. "In order for the Air Force to have the capability to remotely fly aircraft from the other side of the planet, first they need to have them safely in the air, which is our primary mission here," said Staff Sgt. Lance Nettrouer, 361st ERS sensor operator. "But we also provide short notice, time sensitive ISR and strike capability to our counterparts," said Sergeant Nettrouer who is also deployed from the 15th RS. The Predator provides live video, still photographs, and radar imagery in all weather conditions, day or night. Using satellite data links, the information gathered by a Predator can be shared instantaneously with commanders around the world. The aircraft can also employ two laser-guided Hellfire anti-tank missiles.
