EADS Barracuda
EADS · Spain · first flew 2006 · reconnaissance aircraft
The EADS Barracuda is an unmanned jet-powered combat aircraft technology demonstrator built by EADS with strong Spanish and German participation.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, swept |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × turbofan, embedded-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 8.25 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Unmanned jet-powered UCAV demonstrator
- Single embedded turbofan with dorsal intake
- Swept semi-tailless stealthy planform
Recognisable as a small sleek unmanned jet with a dorsal intake and swept planform, distinct from turboprop MALE drones.
Specifications
- The EADS Barracuda has a length of 8.25 m (27 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 7.2 m (24 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 1000 km/h (621 mph).
- Typical crew: 0 (unmanned).
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
First flown in 2006, the programme suffered a crash but resumed to test autonomous flight and sensor networking for future UCAVs.
Variants
Essentially a single evolving demonstrator rather than a production family.
Where you'll see it
Used purely for research and demonstration, not operational service.
Related aircraft
- Airbus Harfang
- Boeing X-37A Approach and Landing Test Vehicle
- Elbit Systems Skylark II
- Hydra Technologies Ehécatl
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