ICM 1/48 US Aerial Target Drones 2 drones and 2 trailers # 48399
In 1948 the USAF (United States Air Force) signed a contract with the Ryan company to develop a jet- powered unmanned aircraft intended as a target for training purposes.
The prototype drone, named XQ-2, made its first flight in 1951. Following successful testing, it entered service with the USAF as the Q-2A (also known as the Firebee).
A slightly modified version, designated KDA-1, was operated by the military fleet. In the late 1950s, a new contract was awarded between the USAF and Ryan for a significantly improved "second-generation" Firebee - the Model 124, initially designated as the Q-2C.
It went into production in 1960, and three years later, its designation was changed to BQM-34A.
This drone featured an enlarged fuselage, longer wings, and a unique intake port under the pointed nose.
The US Navy also adopted the BQM-34A, while the Army received a ground-launched version called the MQM-34D with a JATO (Jet-Assisted Take-Off) booster.
These drones were used for training anti-aircraft defense crews.