MQ-8C Fire Scout reaches initial operational capability

The Navy late last month declared initial operational capability for the MQ-8C Fire Scout unmanned helicopter, the service announced today.

The Northrop Grumman-built aircraft focuses on reconnaissance, situational awareness and precision targeting support. The company is expected to deliver a total of 38 aircraft, according to the Navy statement.

"The MQ-8C will be equipped with an upgraded radar that allows for a larger field of view and a range of digital modes including weather detection, air-to-air targeting and a ground moving target indicator," according to the statement. "It will deploy with [Littoral Combat Ship] in fiscal year 2021 while the MQ-8B conducts operations aboard LCS in 5th and 7th Fleets."