FQ-42 Dark Merlin vs MQ-20 Avenger
Overview
The FQ-42 Dark Merlin and the MQ-20 Avenger are both Military Drones, manufactured by General Atomics and General Atomics respectively.
The MQ-20 Avenger first flew 16 years before the FQ-42 Dark Merlin (2009 vs 2025).
| American jet-powered collaborative combat aircraft developed by General Atomics, selected by the U.S. Air Force to fly air-to-air missions alongside crewed fighters under the CCA program. | |
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Category | Military Drones |
| Manufacturer | General Atomics |
| First flight | 27 August 2025 |
| Year introduced | -- |
| Number produced | N/A |
| Average unit price | -- |
| American jet-powered unmanned combat aerial vehicle, developed in the early 21st century, designed for stealthy reconnaissance and strike missions. | |
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Category | Military Drones |
| Manufacturer | General Atomics |
| First flight | 4 April 2009 |
| Year introduced | -- |
| Number produced | 9 units |
| Average unit price | -- |
| Wingspan | -- m |
| Length | -- m |
| Maximum speed | -- km/h |
| Operational range | -- km |
| Service ceiling | -- m |
| Max. takeoff weight | -- kg |
| Total thrust | 0 ◉ |
| Wingspan | 20.0 m |
| Length | 13.0 m |
| Maximum speed | 740 km/h |
| Operational range | 2,900 km |
| Service ceiling | 15,240 m |
| Max. takeoff weight | 8,255 kg |
| Total thrust | 1 x 17 kN ◉ |
Performance Radar Chart
Detailed Comparison
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is faster, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or MQ-20 Avenger?
The MQ-20 Avenger is faster with a maximum speed of 740 km/h compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 km/h, a difference of 740 km/h.
Which has longer range, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or MQ-20 Avenger?
The MQ-20 Avenger has a longer range at 2,900 km compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 km.
Which can fly higher, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or MQ-20 Avenger?
The MQ-20 Avenger has a higher service ceiling at 15,240 meters (50,000 ft) compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 meters (0 ft).
Which is heavier, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or MQ-20 Avenger?
The MQ-20 Avenger has a higher maximum takeoff weight at 8,255 kg compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 kg.
Which is larger, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or MQ-20 Avenger?
The MQ-20 Avenger is longer at 13.0 meters compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0.0 meters.