Saudi Arabia Reveals Saqr-1 UAV

Saudi Arabia has unveiled a new unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capable of carrying weapons systems.

On May 11, 2017, Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) unveiled a new UAV, called Saqr-1. Video of the drone released by KACST showed it in flight and landing.

 KACST also detailed some of the specifications for the UAV.

The Saqr-1 reportedly has a range of 2,500 kilometers and can reach altitudes of up to 20,000 feet. The drone can stay aloft for a full 24 hours.

Notably, Saqr-1 can be armed. It has the ability to carry missiles or laser-guided bombs. Jeremy Binnie of IHS Jane’s pointed out on Twitter that images of the Saqr-1 appear to suggest it has Chinese weapons systems.

Riyadh has previously been a client for the CH-4, produced by China. The two parties are also believed to have inked a major UAV sale earlier this year.

Derek Bisaccio
Lead Analyst, Defense Markets and Strategic Analysis at Forecast International | + posts

Military markets analyst, covering Eurasia, Middle East, and Africa.

About Derek Bisaccio

Military markets analyst, covering Eurasia, Middle East, and Africa.

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