FQ-42 Dark Merlin vs RQ-11 Raven
Overview
The FQ-42 Dark Merlin and the RQ-11 Raven are both Military Drones, manufactured by General Atomics and AeroVironment respectively.
The RQ-11 Raven first flew 25 years before the FQ-42 Dark Merlin (2000 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 unmanned aerial vehicle, renowned for extensive service since 1990s, widely deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. | |
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Category | Military Drones |
| Manufacturer | AeroVironment |
| First flight | 1 January 2000 |
| Year introduced | 2003 |
| Number produced | 19000 units |
| Average unit price | $170K |
| Wingspan | -- m |
| Length | -- m |
| Maximum speed | -- km/h |
| Operational range | -- km |
| Service ceiling | -- m |
| Max. takeoff weight | -- kg |
| Empty weight | -- kg |
| Wingspan | 1.4 m |
| Length | 0.9 m |
| Maximum speed | 95 km/h |
| Operational range | 10 km |
| Service ceiling | 4,500 m |
| Max. takeoff weight | 2 kg |
| Empty weight | 1.9 kg |
Performance Radar Chart
Detailed Comparison
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is faster, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or RQ-11 Raven?
The RQ-11 Raven is faster with a maximum speed of 95 km/h compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 km/h, a difference of 95 km/h.
Which has longer range, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or RQ-11 Raven?
The RQ-11 Raven has a longer range at 10 km compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 km.
Which can fly higher, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or RQ-11 Raven?
The RQ-11 Raven has a higher service ceiling at 4,500 meters (14,763 ft) compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 meters (0 ft).
Which is heavier, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or RQ-11 Raven?
The RQ-11 Raven has a higher maximum takeoff weight at 2 kg compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 kg.
Which is larger, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or RQ-11 Raven?
The RQ-11 Raven is longer at 0.9 meters compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0.0 meters.