Predator reaches milestone Published Oct. 31, 2002 WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFPN) -- The Air Force's RQ-1A Predator unmanned aerial vehicle achieved 50,000 flight hours during an operational sortie Oct. 26 at a forward-deployment location supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Production of the next generation of Predators, dubbed the Predator B (MQ-9), begins soon. Predator B will carry Hellfire missiles and features an improved targeting system. (Courtesy photo)