Predator crashes in Iraq Published April 9, 2008 BALAD AIR BASE, Iraq (AFPN) -- An Air Force MQ-1 Predator crashed northwest of Balad, Iraq, at approximately 7:10 p.m. local time April 9. The aircraft was launched from Ali Base, Iraq. The aircraft is a medium-altitude, long-endurance, remotely piloted aircraft. The MQ-1's primary mission is conducting armed reconnaissance. A board will be convened to investigate the accident. Mechanical failure is suspected. Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) View the comments/letters page