View source for Northrop Grumman MQ-8 Fire Scout

{{Short description|2000s American unmanned autonomous helicopter developed by Northrop Grumman}}
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{{Infobox aircraft
 |name= MQ-8 Fire Scout
 |image= File:US Navy 110930-N-JQ696-401 An MQ-8B Fire Scout unmanned aerial vehicle (cropped).jpg
 |caption= An MQ-8B Fire Scout completes first [[biofuel]] flight at [[Beachville-St. Inigoes, Maryland|Webster Field]], September 2011
 |type= [[Unmanned aerial vehicle|UAV]] [[helicopter]]
 |manufacturer= [[Northrop Grumman]]
 |designer= <!-- only appropriate for single designers, not project leaders or companies -->
 |first_flight= 2000
 |introduction= 2009 (MQ-8B)<ref name="navyreco23dec14">[http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2285 Northrop Grumman MQ-8C Fire Scout VTOL UAV completes first ship-based test period with US Navy] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141230054214/http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2285 |date=2014-12-30}} - Navyrecognition.com, 23 December 2014</ref>
 |retired= 2022<ref name="seapower31jan23">{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=31 January 2023|title=Navy Is Sustaining 10 Operational MQ-8C Fire Scout UAVs; Rest in Storage|url=https://seapowermagazine.org/navy-is-sustaining-10-operational-mq-8c-fire-scout-uavs-rest-in-storage/|access-date=|website=Seapower Magazine|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230202092946/https://seapowermagazine.org/navy-is-sustaining-10-operational-mq-8c-fire-scout-uavs-rest-in-storage/|archive-date=2 February 2023|url-status=live}}</ref>
 |status= Retired (RQ-8A, MQ-8B)
 |primary_user= [[United States Navy]]
 |more_users= 
 |produced= 
 |number_built= 30 (MQ-8B)<ref name="navyreco23dec14"/>
 |program cost= $3,060.6M<ref name=GAO-15-342SP /><small>(FY15)</small> (including MQ-8C) (equivalent to ${{Inflation|US-GDP|3.0606|2015|r=2}} billion in {{Inflation-year|US-GDP}} dollars){{Inflation/fn|US-GDP}}
 |unit cost= MQ-8B: [[US$]]14.6M<ref name=GAO-15-342SP>{{cite web |url=http://www.gao.gov/assets/670/668986.pdf#page=125 |page=117 |title=GAO-15-342SP DEFENSE ACQUISITIONS Assessments of Selected Weapon Programs |publisher=US Government Accountability Office |date=March 2015 |access-date=15 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924043422/http://www.gao.gov/assets/670/668986.pdf#page=125 |archive-date=24 September 2015 |url-status=live}} $438.1M had been spent on procurement after 30 airframes had been acquired</ref><small>(FY15)</small> (ex R&D) (equivalent to ${{Inflation|US-GDP|14.6|2015|r=1}} million in {{Inflation-year|US-GDP}}){{Inflation/fn|US-GDP}}
 |developed_from= [[Schweizer 333|Schweizer 330 and 333]]
 |variants= [[Sikorsky S-434]]
 |developed_into= [[Northrop Grumman MQ-8C Fire Scout]]
}}

The '''Northrop Grumman MQ-8 Fire Scout''' is an [[unmanned aerial vehicle|unmanned]] autonomous [[helicopter]] developed by [[Northrop Grumman]] for use by the [[United States Armed Forces]].<ref name=DoD20060124>{{cite news |url= http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22038 |title= Autonomous Fire Scout UAV Lands on Ship |publisher= [[United States Department of Defense|Department of Defense]] |date= January 24, 2006 |access-date= 2008-02-01 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080228042407/http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22038 |archive-date= February 28, 2008}}</ref> The Fire Scout is designed to provide reconnaissance, [[situation awareness|situational awareness]], aerial fire support and precision targeting support for ground, air and sea forces. The initial '''RQ-8A''' version was based on the [[Schweizer 333|Schweizer 330]], while the enhanced '''MQ-8B''' was derived from the Schweizer 333.  The larger [[Northrop Grumman MQ-8C Fire Scout|MQ-8C Fire Scout]] variant is based on the [[Bell 407]].

In February 2018, 23 MQ-8Bs were in service with the U.S. Navy.<ref>[http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2018/2/27/navy-evaluates-man-machine-pairing-with-new-fire-scout Navy Evaluates Man-Machine Pairing with New Fire Scout] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180305063931/http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2018/2/27/navy-evaluates-man-machine-pairing-with-new-fire-scout |date=2018-03-05}}. ''National Defense Magazine''. 27 February 2018.</ref> The MQ-8B was retired from service in October 2022.<ref name="seapower31jan23"/>

==Design and development==

===RQ-8A===
As the US Navy was withdrawing its [[RQ-2 Pioneer]]s from service, it began to seek a second generation [[UAV]]. The Navy requirement specified a vertical takeoff & landing ([[VTOL]]) aircraft, with a payload capacity of 90&nbsp;kg (200&nbsp;lb), a range of 125 miles (200&nbsp;km), an endurance on station of three hours at an altitude of {{convert|20000|ft|m|-2}}, and the ability to land on a ship in a {{cvt|29|mph|km/h m/s}} wind. The UAV was to fly 190 hours before planned maintenance.

There were three finalists in the competition, which was designated "VTOL-UAV" or "VTUAV". [[Bell Helicopter|Bell]], [[Sikorsky Aircraft|Sikorsky]], and a collaboration of [[Teledyne Ryan]] and [[Schweizer Aircraft]] submitted designs. The Ryan-Schweizer UAV was selected as the winner in the spring of 2000. The ''RQ-8A Fire Scout'', as it was named, was a derivative of the Schweizer three-passenger, turbine powered ''[[Schweizer 333|330SP]]'' helicopter, with a new fuselage, new fuel system, and UAV electronics and sensors.

The initial prototype of the Fire Scout was piloted in initial tests, flying autonomously for the first time in January 2000. The [[Rolls-Royce Model 250|Rolls-Royce 250-C20]] turbine engine ran on [[JP-8]] and [[JP-5]] jet fuel (the latter of which has a higher flashpoint and is considered safe for shipboard storage and use).

The Fire Scout was to be fitted with a sensor ball turret that carries electro-optic and infrared cameras, and a laser range finder. It was to be controlled over a data link derived from the [[Northrop Grumman RQ-4 Global Hawk]] UAV, operating over a line of sight to a distance of 172&nbsp;miles (280&nbsp;km). The control system was to be fitted onto a ship, or could be carried on a [[Humvee]] light vehicle for US Marine service.

===MQ-8B===
[[File:MQ-8B Fire Scout.jpeg|thumb|An MQ-8B Fire Scout displayed at the [[Royal International Air Tattoo]], [[RAF Fairford]], Gloucestershire, England, July 2007]]

Although progress on the project had been regarded as satisfactory, the Navy decided the Fire Scout didn't meet their needs after all, and cut funding for production in December 2001. However, the development program continued, and Northrop Grumman pitched a range of improved configurations to anyone who was interested. As it turned out, the U.S. Army was very interested, awarding a contract for seven improved ''RQ-8B'' evaluation machines in late 2003. In 2006, it was redesignated ''MQ-8B''.

The MQ-8B features a four-blade main rotor, in contrast to the larger-diameter three-blade rotor of the RQ-8A, to reduce noise and improve lift capacity and performance. The four-blade rotor had already been evaluated on Fire Scout prototypes. They increase gross takeoff weight by {{convert|500|lb}}, to {{convert|3150|lb}} with payloads of up to {{convert|700|lb|kg}} for short-range missions. The MQ-8B is {{convert|23.95|ft}} long, {{convert|6.2|ft}} wide, and {{convert|9.71|ft}} tall.<ref>{{Cite web |url= http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/FireScout/Documents/pageDocuments/MQ-8B_Fire_Scout_Data_Sheet.pdf |title= MQ-8B data sheet |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140420235117/http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/FireScout/Documents/pageDocuments/MQ-8B_Fire_Scout_Data_Sheet.pdf |archive-date= 2014-04-20 |url-status= live}}</ref>

The MQ-8B is fitted with stub wings which serve both an aerodynamic purpose as well as an armament carriage location. Weapons to be carried include [[Hellfire missile]]s, [[Viper Strike]] [[laser-guided]] glide weapons, and, in particular, pods carrying the [[Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System]] (APKWS), a laser-guided 70&nbsp;mm (2.75&nbsp;in) folding-fin rocket, which the Army saw as ideal for the modern battlefield. The Army was also interested in using the Fire Scout to carry up to {{convert|200|lb}} of emergency supplies to troops in the field.

The MQ-8B is being modified{{when|date=March 2023}} to permit rapid swap out of payload configurations. The current sensor configuration of a day/night turret with a laser target designator will remain an option. Alternate sensor payloads in consideration include a [[Tactical Synthetic Aperture Radar|TSAR]] with Moving Target Indicator (MTI) capability, a multispectral sensor, a SIGINT module, the [[Target Acquisition Minefield Detection System]] (ASTAMIDS), and the Tactical Common Data Link (TCDL). The Army wanted the Fire Scout to operate as an element of an integrated ground sensor network as well.

In April 2006, production on the flight test airframes was initiated at Northrop Grumman's Unmanned Systems production plant in [[Moss Point, Mississippi]]. The first flight of the MQ-8B took place on 18 December 2006 at [[Naval Air Station Patuxent River]]. The Army interest revived Navy interest in the program, with the Navy ordering eight ''Sea Scout'' MQ-8B derivatives for evaluation. In January 2010, the Army terminated its involvement with the Fire Scout, contending that the [[RQ-7 Shadow]] UAV could meet the Army's needs.<ref>[https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/58579-army-to-end-robotic-vehicle-aircraft-efforts/ Army to end robotic vehicle, aircraft efforts]  TheHill.com</ref> In 2009, the Navy approved [[Low rate initial production|low-rate initial production]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=160037 |title=Navy awards 3rd LRIP contract |access-date=2009-02-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090501023306/http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=160037 |archive-date=2009-05-01 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The MQ-8B complements the manned aviation detachments onboard Air Capable ships and is deployed along with a MH-60R HSM detachment or a MH-60S HSC detachment. With the planned addition of radar, AIS, and weapons, the MQ-8B shall have many capabilities of the manned MH-60R. It will give air detachments greater flexibility in meeting mission demands, and will free manned aircraft.{{Citation needed|date=May 2010}}

On 23 September 2011, [[Naval Air Systems Command]] awarded Northrop Grumman a $17 million contract to outfit the MQ-8B with the [[Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System]] laser-guided 70&nbsp;mm rocket.<ref>Eshel, Noam. [http://defense-update.com/20111109_arming-the-fire-scout-u-s-to-arm-the-mq-8b-with-apkws-guided-rockets.html "Arming the Fire Scout – U.S. to Arm the MQ-8B with APKWS Guided Rockets."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111112092121/http://defense-update.com/20111109_arming-the-fire-scout-u-s-to-arm-the-mq-8b-with-apkws-guided-rockets.html |date=2011-11-12}} ''Defense Update'', 9 November 2011.</ref> By August 2013, the MQ-8B had completed 11 of 12 APKWS launches, with testing to be completed "shortly."<ref name="shortly">[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/auvsi-northrop-close-to-completing-firescout-weapon-tests-389492/ Northrop close to completing Firescout weapon tests] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130818112110/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/auvsi-northrop-close-to-completing-firescout-weapon-tests-389492/ |date=2013-08-18}} - Flightglobal.com, 14 August 2013</ref> By February 2016, the APKWS had been fielded on the MQ-8B.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/singapore-fire-scout-touted-for-asia-pacific-export-421894/ Fire Scout touted for Asia-Pacific export] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160216093530/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/singapore-fire-scout-touted-for-asia-pacific-export-421894/ |date=2016-02-16}} - Flightglobal.com, 15 February 2016</ref> Due to its limited payload, the MQ-8B carries three tube rocket launchers.<ref>[https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/navy-league/2018/04/09/weaponization-of-unmanned-fire-scout-helicopter-on-hiatus-until-2023/ Weaponization of unmanned Fire Scout helicopter ‘on hiatus’ until 2023]. ''Defense News''. 9 April 2018.</ref>

On 30 December 2012, the Navy issued an urgent order to install RDR-1700 maritime surveillance radars on nine MQ-8Bs. The RDR-1700 is an [[X-band]] [[synthetic aperture radar]] housed in a modified radome mounted on the helicopter's underside for 360-degree coverage, interfaced with the UAV and its control station. Detailed range is out to {{convert|25|km|mi|abbr=on}}, with a max range of {{convert|80|km|mi|abbr=on}}. The RDR-1700 can see through clouds and sandstorms and can perform terrain mapping or weather detection, and track 20 air or surface targets, determining a target's range, bearing, and velocity.<ref name="RDR">[http://strategypage.com/htmw/htnavai/articles/20130118.aspx Robochoppers Turned Into Maritime Recon Aircraft] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130120205106/http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htnavai/articles/20130118.aspx |date=2013-01-20}} - Strategypage.com, January 18, 2013</ref><ref>[http://www.suasnews.com/2012/12/20410/navy-issues-hurry-up-order-to-equip-fire-scout-uas-with-maritime-surveillance-radar/ Navy issues hurry-up order to equip Fire Scout UAS with maritime surveillance radar] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130109075542/http://www.suasnews.com/2012/12/20410/navy-issues-hurry-up-order-to-equip-fire-scout-uas-with-maritime-surveillance-radar/ |date=2013-01-09}} - sUASNews.com, December 30, 2012</ref> In January 2013, the Navy awarded a $33 million contract to [[Griffon Corporation#Telephonics|Telephonics]] for the RDR-1700B+ radar, designated ''AN/ZPY-4(V)1''.<ref name="an/zpy-4">[http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/ain-defense-perspective/2013-01-25/surveillance-radar-selected-unmanned-mq-8b-fire-scouts Surveillance Radar Selected for Unmanned MQ-8B Fire Scouts] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131006004957/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/ain-defense-perspective/2013-01-25/surveillance-radar-selected-unmanned-mq-8b-fire-scouts |date=2013-10-06}} - Ainonline.com, 25 January 2013</ref> The radar gives a beyond the horizon broad area search and track capability to track up to 200 targets and operates in surface search, terrain mapping, [[IR strobe|emergency beacon]] detection, and weather avoidance modes, supplementing the FLIR Systems Brite Star II electro-optical/infrared payload. It was first demonstrated on an MQ-8B on 7 May 2014.<ref>[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/northrop-demonstrates-broad-area-search-radar-on-mq-8b-400560/ Northrop demonstrates broad area search radar on MQ-8B] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140701181251/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/northrop-demonstrates-broad-area-search-radar-on-mq-8b-400560/ |date=2014-07-01}} - Flightglobal.com, 19 June 2014</ref>

In 2017, the MQ-8B was to receive a mine-detection sensor for use in littoral waters called the Coastal Battlefield Reconnaissance and Analysis (COBRA).  The COBRA is designed to detect naval mines at a safe distance from a [[Littoral Combat Ship]] operating in coastal waters, and also has the capability to locate submarines through acoustic detection if they are on or near the surface.<ref>{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20140614153520/http://defensetech.org/2014/06/10/navy-arms-upgrades-fire-scout-uas/ Navy Arms, Upgrades Fire Scout UAS]}} - Defensetech.org, 10 June 2014</ref> COBRA takes the place of the Fire Scout's usual EO/IR sensor.<ref name="ndm17dec14">[https://archive.today/20141221233233/http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/blog/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?ID=1702 Navy to Start Competition for New Fire Scout Radar] - Nationaldefensemagazine.org, 17 December 2014</ref>

==Operational history==
[[File:Fire Scout unmanned helicopter crop.jpg|thumb|left|An RQ-8A prepares for the first autonomous landing aboard {{USS|Nashville|LPD-13|6}} during sea trials, 2006.]]

In January 2006, an RQ-8A Fire Scout landed aboard the [[amphibious transport ship]] {{USS|Nashville|LPD-13|2}} while it was steaming off the coast of [[Maryland]] near the [[Patuxent River]]. This marked the first time an unmanned helicopter has landed autonomously aboard a moving U.S. Navy ship without a pilot controlling the aircraft.<ref>[http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22038 "Northrop Grumman Fire Scout performs first autonomous naval landing of a UAV"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101117191309/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22038 |date=2010-11-17}}. US Navy</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6480527220991296180 |title=Video of first autonomous naval landing of a UAV |access-date=2010-05-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606202613/http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6480527220991296180 |archive-date=2011-06-06 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=Born_survivor>Noris, Guy. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2006/12/13/211080/born-survivor-an-in-depth-look-at-the-northrop-grumman-mq-8b-fire-scout-vertical-take-off-and.html "Born survivor - An in-depth look at the Northrop Grumman MQ-8B Fire Scout vertical take-off and landing UAV"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080314032629/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2006/12/13/211080/born-survivor-an-in-depth-look-at-the-northrop-grumman-mq-8b-fire-scout-vertical-take-off-and.html |date=2008-03-14}}. ''Flight International'', 13 December 2006.</ref> ''Nashville'' was maneuvering as fast as {{convert|17|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} in the tests.

A total of 24 MQ-8Bs are to be deployed on the Navy's [[littoral combat ship]]s (LCS) from 2014 onwards.<ref name="shortly"/> The Fire Scout significantly contributes to the LCS's primary mission roles of anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare and mine warfare. The ship's modular nature is complemented by the Fire Scout's own modular mission payloads. Due to changes in the LCS development schedule, the Navy conducted the Fire Scout Operational Evaluation (OpEval) aboard the [[frigate]] {{USS|McInerney|FFG-8|2}}.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/firescout/ |title=naval-technology.com |access-date=2009-02-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227083526/http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/firescout/ |archive-date=2009-02-27 |url-status=live}}</ref> On 10 December 2008, the Fire Scout first embarked aboard ''McInerney'' while in port for operational fit checks and ship integration testing.<ref name="defencetalk.com">{{Cite web |url=http://www.defencetalk.com/us-navy-mq-8b-fire-scout-shines-at-sea-19387/ |title=defencetalk.com |access-date=2009-06-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090605152828/http://www.defencetalk.com/us-navy-mq-8b-fire-scout-shines-at-sea-19387/ |archive-date=2009-06-05 |url-status=live}}</ref> The Navy conducted Technical Evaluation on the Fire Scout on ''McInerney'' in late 2008 and Operational Evaluation in mid 2009. The Fire Scout was to reach [[Initial operating capability|Initial Operating Capability]] soon after the evaluation.<ref name="atn1">"Northrop lifts Navy to new era for unmanned flight". ''Aerotech News and Review'', 22 December 2006.</ref>

Flight tests of the Fire Scout took place in May 2009, these tests in areas of shipboard deck motion and wind envelope expansion and landings, including the use of the grid and harpoon system. During five days of testing, the ship/aircraft team compiled 19 flight hours during 12 flights, which included 54 landings, 37 of which were into the NATO standard grid.{{huh|date=April 2019}}<ref name="defencetalk.com"/> In September 2009, the Navy announced the first deployment of the MQ-8B aboard ''McInerney''.<ref>Jefferson, Ann Wilkins. [http://www.navy.mil/media/allhands/acrobat/ah200909.pdf "Prey Station."]{{dead link|date=April 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} All Hands Magazine, Sept 2009.</ref> On 3 April 2010, an MQ-8 from ''McInerney'' detected a speedboat and a support vessel engaged in smuggling cocaine in the Eastern Pacific, allowing the ship to confiscate 60&nbsp;kg of cocaine and detain multiple suspects.<ref name="test">[http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=52461 Fire Scout Scores First-Ever Drug Bust with McInerney] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100412191241/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=52461 |date=2010-04-12}} ''Navi.mil'', 7 April 2010. Retrieved: 14 April 2010.</ref>

On 2 August 2010, an MQ-8 became unresponsive to commands during testing and entered restricted airspace around [[Washington, D.C.]] They were able to re-establish communications and regain control of the aircraft.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/26/us/26drone.html |work=The New York Times |title=Navy Drone Wanders Into Restricted Airspace Around Washington |first=Elisabeth |last=Bumiller |date=August 25, 2010 |access-date=February 25, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161118143728/http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/26/us/26drone.html |archive-date=November 18, 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=4759558&c=AME&s=AIR |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120730013600/http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=4759558&c=AME&s=AIR |url-status=dead |archive-date=July 30, 2012 |title=Fire Scout Incident Called 'Learning Experience' |first=Kristin |last=Quinn |date=August 27, 2010 |work=DefenseNews}}</ref>

[[File:US Navy 100514-N-0000X-001 Civilian artisans from Fleet Readiness Center East perform maintenance and corrosion assessments.jpg|thumb|right|An MQ-8B undergoes maintenance by civilian technicians at [[Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point]], 2010]]

In May 2011, three MQ-8s were deployed to northern Afghanistan for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) purposes.<ref>Donald, David. [http://www.ainonline.com/?q=aviation-news/dubai-air-show/2011-11-14/fire-scout-proves-its-value-middle-east-warzones "Fire Scout Proves Its Value in Middle East Warzones."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119054050/http://www.ainonline.com/?q=aviation-news%2Fdubai-air-show%2F2011-11-14%2Ffire-scout-proves-its-value-middle-east-warzones |date=2012-01-19}} ''The Convention News'', 15 November 2011.</ref> During the [[2011 military intervention in Libya]], several Fire Scouts were operated on board the {{USS|Halyburton|FFG-40|2}} by [[List of United States Navy aircraft squadrons#Helicopter Anti-Submarine .28Light.29 Squadrons|HSL-42 Squadron]] as part of [[Operation Unified Protector]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Stewart |first=Joshua |title=Navy: Fire Scout drone excels after fixes |url=http://www.navytimes.com/news/2011/08/navy-fire-scout-excels-after-fixes-080711/ |date= 7 August 2011 |access-date=20 August 2011}}</ref> On 21 June 2011, a MQ-8 from ''Halyburton'' was shot down by pro-[[Gaddafi]] forces during a reconnaissance mission.<ref>[https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-13858200 "Libya conflict: Nato loses drone helicopter"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110625031542/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-13858200 |date=2011-06-25}}. BBC, 21 June 2011.</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Stewart|first=Joshua|title=Navy: UAV likely downed by pro-Gadhafi forces|url=http://www.navytimes.com/news/2011/08/navy-fire-scout-likely-shot-down-libya-080511w/|access-date=20 August 2011|newspaper=Navy Times|date=August 5, 2011}}</ref>

The U.S. Navy briefly grounded the MQ-8B after two aircraft crashed within a week. In the first incident, a Fire Scout reportedly crashed off the coast of Africa on 30 March after it was unable to land on the frigate {{USS|Simpson|FFG-56|2}} following a surveillance mission. On 6 April 2012, another Fire Scout crashed in Afghanistan.<ref>{{cite news |last= Hennigan |title= Navy grounds helicopter drones after two crashes in a week |url= https://www.latimes.com/business/money/la-fi-mo-navy-drone-helicopter-grounded-20120410,0,2419066.story |date= 10 April 2012 |access-date= 10 April 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120411142706/http://www.latimes.com/business/money/la-fi-mo-navy-drone-helicopter-grounded-20120410,0,2419066.story |archive-date= 11 April 2012 |url-status= live}}</ref> An investigation into the crash in Afghanistan determined the cause was a faulty navigation system. The cause of the crash near ''Simpson'' remained less clear, tougher maintenance procedures were put in place to prevent faulty aircraft from going on-mission. The Fire Scout was back flying over Afghanistan by May, and returned to sea-based ISR "anti-piracy" operations by August.<ref>[https://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2012/08/fire-scout-back/ Robot Copter Clears Probation, Chases African Pirates] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131014191622/http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2012/08/fire-scout-back |date=2013-10-14}} - Wired.com, August 1, 2012</ref>

On 1 December 2012, {{USS|Klakring|FFG-42|2}} returned from a five-month deployment supporting anti-piracy operations for the [[U.S. Africa Command]]. The Navy's fourth Fire Scout detachment logged over 500 flight hours and regularly maintained 12-hour days on station, switching to provide continuous support. One Fire Scout set a single-day record, providing ISR coverage for a 24-hour period in September 2012 over the course of 10 flights.<ref>[http://www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.NAVAIRNewsStory&id=5202 Fire Scout breaks endurance records on USS Klakring deployment] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201232314/http://www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.NAVAIRNewsStory&id=5202 |date=2014-02-01}} - NAVAIR.Navy.mil, 3 December 2012</ref> On 31 March 2013, an MQ-8B deployed on {{USS|Robert G. Bradley|FFG-49|2}} completed its 600th deployed flight hour, during the Fire Scout's fifth sea-based deployment. It was the first time a Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC-22) deployed with a Fire Scout; previous deployments were conducted by the Helicopter Maritime Strike community. Between 2006 and 2013, the Fire Scout flew over 8,000 hours, over half in real-world operations.<ref>[http://www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.NAVAIRNewsStory&id=5310 Fire Scout unmanned helicopter, USS Robert G. Bradley set deployment record] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201232059/http://www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.NAVAIRNewsStory&id=5310 |date=2014-02-01}} - NAVAIR.Navy.mil, 3 April 2013</ref> In June 2013, Helicopter Strike Maritime Squadron (HSM) 46, Det. 9 surpassed the MQ-8B's monthly flight record at sea aboard {{USS|Samuel B. Roberts|FFG-58|2}}, flying for 333 flight hours during the helicopter's sixth deployment.<ref>[http://www.suasnews.com/2013/08/24377/fire-scout-surpasses-flight-hour-record-aboard-uss-samuel-b-roberts/ Fire Scout surpasses flight hour record aboard USS Samuel B. Roberts] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130814034114/http://www.suasnews.com/2013/08/24377/fire-scout-surpasses-flight-hour-record-aboard-uss-samuel-b-roberts/ |date=2013-08-14}} - sUASNews.com, 8 August 2013</ref>

[[File:Sailors push an MQ-8B Fire Scout on the flight deck of USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10). (48793085853).jpg|thumb|An MQ-8B aboard {{USS|Gabrielle Giffords|LCS-10|6}} in 2019]]
In August 2013, the MQ-8B surpassed 5,000 flight hours in Afghanistan. In 28 months, Fire Scouts had accumulated 5,084 hours providing critical surveillance for U.S. and allied forces. Combined with testing and six at-sea deployments, the helicopter has over 10,000 flight hours supporting naval and ground forces.<ref>[http://www.northropgrumman.com/MediaResources/Pages/NewsArticle.aspx?art=http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/xml/nitf.html?d=10044830 MQ-8B Fire Scout Passes 5,000 Flight Hours Supporting Operations in Afghanistan] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181118101930/http://www.northropgrumman.com/MediaResources/Pages/NewsArticle.aspx?art=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.irconnect.com%2Fnoc%2Fpress%2Fxml%2Fnitf.html%3Fd%3D10044830 |date=2018-11-18}} - Northrop Grumman press release, 13 August 2013</ref> In late 2013, the Fire Scout ended its Afghanistan deployment mission and were shipped back to the US. MQ-8Bs will still be deployed on Naval frigates, and be integrated onto LCS. The Navy also ordered the [[Griffon Corporation#Telephonics|Telephonics]] AN/ZPY-4 radar to expand surveillance capabilities. Twelve radars, including three spares, were to be delivered by December 2014. The Navy plans buy 96 MQ-8B/C Fire Scouts.<ref name=Fire_Scout_Afghan_ends>[http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20130816/NEWS04/308160001/Fire-Scout-ends-Afghan-mission-future-includes-new-variant-LCS-work Fire Scout ends Afghan mission; future includes new variant, LCS work] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141222022427/http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20130816/NEWS04/308160001/Fire-Scout-ends-Afghan-mission-future-includes-new-variant-LCS-work |date=2014-12-22}} - Militarytimes.com, August 16, 2013</ref>

From 25 April to 16 May 2014, the LCS {{USS|Freedom|LCS-1|2}} conducted the future concept of operations (CONOPS) for manned and unmanned helicopters aboard littoral combat ships.  Operations had the manned MH-60R working together with the unmanned MQ-8B. The demonstration included one MH-60R and one MQ-8B flying with the surface warfare (SUW) mission package installed, intended to provide fleet protection against small boats and asymmetric threats. The tests were to demonstrate manned and unmanned helicopter capabilities before their initial deployment together,<ref>[http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/lcs1/Pages/NavyConductsInitialFireScoutH60HelicopterDemonstrationAboardLCS.aspx Navy Conducts Initial Fire Scout, H-60 Helicopter Demonstration Aboard LCS] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714074034/http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/lcs1/Pages/NavyConductsInitialFireScoutH60HelicopterDemonstrationAboardLCS.aspx |date=2014-07-14}} - Navy.mil, 16 May 2014</ref> which set sail on 14 November 2014.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/nov/17/fortworth-firescout-deployment-helicopter-drone/ |title=Helicopter drone makes history |last1=Steele |first1=Jeanette |date=17 November 2014 |website=www.utsandiego.com |publisher=The San Diego Union-Tribune |access-date=18 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150330190316/http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/nov/17/fortworth-firescout-deployment-helicopter-drone/ |archive-date=30 March 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>

On 5 December 2014, a Navy MQ-8B successfully flew off of the [[U.S. Coast Guard]] cutter {{USCGC|Bertholf|WMSL-750|2}}, for the first time.  The Fire Scout was controlled from a control station located on ''Bertholf''.  The Coast Guard intends to use the results of the demonstration to inform decisions on acquiring a UAS to enhance persistent maritime surveillance capabilities while lowering operational costs.<ref>[http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/uv-online/mq-8b-fire-scout-flies-us-coast-guard-cutter/ MQ-8B Fire Scout flies from US Coast Guard cutter] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141217223447/http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/uv-online/mq-8b-fire-scout-flies-us-coast-guard-cutter/ |date=2014-12-17}} – Shephardmedia.com, 17 December 2014</ref>

On 16 October 2016, the LCS {{USS|Coronado|LCS-4|2}} deployed to Singapore with two MQ-8B Fire Scouts, which for the first time had the Telephonics AN/ZPY-4(V)1 radar, giving them a beyond the horizon broad area search and track capability to track up to 200 targets with surface search, terrain mapping, emergency beacon detection, and weather avoidance modes.<ref>[https://news.usni.org/2016/10/18/littoral-combat-ship-uss-coronado-arrives-singapore Littoral Combat Ship USS Coronado Arrives in Singapore] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161019175951/https://news.usni.org/2016/10/18/littoral-combat-ship-uss-coronado-arrives-singapore |date=2016-10-19}} - News.USNI.org, 18 October 2016</ref>

On 13 October 2018, [[Taiwan]] was reportedly cleared to purchase the MQ-8B variant, potentially making it the first export country.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taiwan cleared to buy MQ-8B |url=https://alert5.com/2018/10/15/taiwan-cleared-to-buy-mq-8b/ |website=Alert 5 |access-date=15 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181015040649/https://alert5.com/2018/10/15/taiwan-cleared-to-buy-mq-8b/ |archive-date=15 October 2018 |date=15 October 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=【獨家】美將售台「火力偵察兵」艦載無人機 可滯空8小時偵測半徑110海里 |url=https://www.upmedia.mg/news_info.php?SerialNo=49852 |website=UP Media |access-date=15 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181015040719/https://www.upmedia.mg/news_info.php?SerialNo=49852 |archive-date=15 October 2018 |language=zh |date=13 October 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The U.S. Navy retired its fleet of MQ-8Bs in October 2022 after 13 years of service, replacing it with the larger MQ-8C.<ref name="seapower31jan23"/>

==Variants==
[[File:RQ-8A Fire Scout.jpg|thumb|right|An RQ-8A Fire Scout takes off at the Webster Field Annex of NAS Patuxent River in 2005.]]

;RQ-8A :
;RQ-8B :
;MQ-8B : Version has an 8-hour endurance with a 170&nbsp;lb payload.<ref name=AWST_7_May_2012>{{cite journal |url= http://www.aviationweek.com/awin/ArticlesStory.aspx?&id=/article-xml/AW_05_07_2012_p12-454447.xml |title= Navy OK Kicks Off Fire Scout Upgrade (subscription article) |journal= Aviation Week & Space Technology |date= 7 May 2012 |page= 12 }}{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
;[[Northrop Grumman MQ-8C Fire Scout|MQ-8C Fire-X/Fire Scout]] : Improved variant using avionics from the MQ-8B with the larger [[Bell 407]] airframe.

==Former operators==
;{{USA}}
*[[United States Navy]] – 168 initially planned,<ref name="navair"/> reduced to 96 B- and C-models.<ref name=Fire_Scout_Afghan_ends/>

==Specifications (MQ-8B)==
[[File:RQ-8 Fire Scout (drawing).png|thumb|RQ-8B Fire Scout 3-view]]
[[File:US Navy 040924-N-0295M-043 A Northrop Grumman RQ-8B Fire Scout Vertical Take-Off and Landing Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (VTUAV) System sits on the flight line as a static display at the 2004 Naval Air Station Oceana Air S.jpg|thumb|right|MQ-8B on static display showing [[Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System]] rocket pods. [[Naval Air Station Oceana]], 2004]]

{{Aircraft specs
|prime units? = kts
|ref=Northrop Grumman,<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20140611060211/https://www.northropgrumman.com/capabilities/firescout/documents/pagedocuments/mq-8b_fire_scout_data_sheet.pdf "MQ-8B Fire Scout Data Sheet"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140420235117/http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/FireScout/Documents/pageDocuments/MQ-8B_Fire_Scout_Data_Sheet.pdf |date=2014-04-20}} ''Northrop Grumman''. Retrieved May 2, 2013.</ref> NAVAIR<ref name="navair">[http://www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.display&key=8250AFBA-DF2B-4999-9EF3-0B0E46144D03 "MQ-8B Fire Scout"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170212064420/https://www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.display&key=8250AFBA-DF2B-4999-9EF3-0B0E46144D03 |date=2015-10-15}} ''NAVAIR''. Retrieved April 21, 2010.</ref>
|crew=0 (on-board)
|capacity = 600 lb (272 kg)
|length ft=23.95 
|length m=7.3 
|height m=2.9 
|height ft=9.71 
|span ft=27.5 
|span m=8.4 
|empty weight kg=940.3
|empty weight lb=2073
|max takeoff weight kg=1430
|max takeoff weight lb=3150
|eng1 name=[[Rolls-Royce Model 250|Rolls-Royce 250]]
|eng1 number=1
|eng1 kw=313
|eng1 hp=420
|max speed kts=115
|cruise speed kts=110
|combat range nmi=110
|combat range note= with 5+ hours on station
|endurance=8 hours (typical), 5 hours fully loaded<ref>"[http://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=889 RQ-8B] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130818143957/http://militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=889 |date=2013-08-18}}" ''Military Factory'', February 25, 2013. Accessed September 7, 2013.</ref>
|ceiling ft=20000
}}

==See also==
{{aircontent
|see also=
|related=
* [[Northrop Grumman MQ-8C Fire Scout]]
* [[Schweizer 333|Schweizer 330 and 333]]
* [[Schweizer S-434]]
|similar aircraft=
* [[Bell Eagle Eye]]
* [[Boeing A160 Hummingbird]]
* [[Airbus Helicopters VSR700]]
* [[Leonardo Proteus]]
|lists=
*[[List of active United States military aircraft]]
 
}}

==References==
''This article contains material that originally came from the web article {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20120111195444/http://www.vectorsite.net/twuav.html ''Unmanned Aerial Vehicles'']}} by Greg Goebel, which exists in the Public Domain.''
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Northrop Grumman MQ-8 Fire Scout}}
* [http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/FireScout/Pages/default.aspx MQ-8B Fire Scout page on northropgrumman.com] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191027131645/https://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/FireScout/Pages/default.aspx |date=2019-10-27 }}
* [http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/business/20060119-9999-1b19scout.html Unmanned copter looks shipshape] San Diego Union Tribune, January 19, 2006

{{Grumman aircraft}}
{{Schweizer aircraft}}
{{US unmanned aircraft}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:MQ-08 Fire Scout}}
[[Category:Unmanned helicopters]]
[[Category:Unmanned aerial vehicles of the United States]]
[[Category:2000s United States military reconnaissance aircraft]]
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[[Category:Northrop Grumman aircraft|MQ-008 Fire Scout]]
[[Category:2000s United States helicopters]]
[[Category:Single-turbine helicopters|Northrop Grumman MQ-8 Fire Scout]]
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[[Category:Single-rotor helicopters]]
[[Category:Aircraft with skid landing gear]]