How the predator grew teeth

The Predator made its operational debut in 1995. It has since gained new capabilities at a rate that astonishes those accustomed to routine development programs. Three groups of people played vital roles in quickly ushering in the Predator's multimission capability, which required adding a laser designator, then onboard Hellfire missiles. Gen. John P. Jumper, James G. Clark, and advocates of Air Force Materiel Command's 'Big Safari' program office. The Big Safari office recommended that the Predator's sensor camera ball be replaced with a different sensor that would offer both a camera and laser designator. This would allow transmission of target data with pinpoint accuracy from the Predator to NATO's F-16s. Some Predators were armed with the AIM-92 Stinger missile, to defend themselves against Iraqi fighters. Satellite relays allow Predator pilots in the US to operate the armed UAV in combat in the Middle East.