Predator crashes north of Balad Published June 3, 2008 BALAD AIR BASE, Iraq (AFPN) -- An MQ-1 Predator crashed north of Balad Air Base at approximately 10:40 p.m. local time June 2. The unmanned aerial vehicle was approximately 2 kilometers from the base. The aircraft is a medium-altitude, long-endurance, remotely piloted aircraft. The Predator's primary mission is conducting armed reconnaissance. A board will be convened to investigate the accident. Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) View the comments/letters page