RQ-7 Shadow vs Tu-143 Reys
| American reconnaissance drone, integral to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, recognized for its surveillance and target acquisition roles. | |
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Category | Military Drones |
| Manufacturer | AAI Corporation |
| First flight | 1 January 1991 |
| Year introduced | 2002 |
| Number produced | 500 units |
| Average unit price | $0.8 million |
| Soviet unmanned reconnaissance aircraft from 1970s used for tactical reconnaissance missions | |
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| Origin country | 🇨🇳 Ex-USSR |
| Category | Military Drones |
| Manufacturer | Tupolev |
| First flight | 1 January 1970 |
| Year introduced | 1976 |
| Number produced | 950 units |
| Average unit price | $-- million |
| Wingspan | 3.9 m â—‰ |
| Height | -- m |
| Length | 3.4 m â—‰ |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h â—‰ |
| Operational range | 109 km â—‰ |
| Service ceiling | 4,600 m â—‰ |
| Max. takeoff weight | 170 kg â—‰ |
| Empty weight | 86 kg |
| Wingspan | 2.2 m â—‰ |
| Height | 1.5 m |
| Length | 8.1 m â—‰ |
| Maximum speed | 950 km/h â—‰ |
| Operational range | 200 km â—‰ |
| Service ceiling | 5,000 m â—‰ |
| Max. takeoff weight | 1,230 kg â—‰ |
| Empty weight | -- kg |
Performance Radar Chart
Photo of Tu-143 Reys by Ukraine Ministry of Defence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is faster, the RQ-7 Shadow or Tu-143 Reys?
The Tu-143 Reys is faster with a maximum speed of 950 km/h compared to the RQ-7 Shadow's 200 km/h, a difference of 750 km/h.
Which has longer range, the RQ-7 Shadow or Tu-143 Reys?
The Tu-143 Reys has a longer range at 200 km compared to the RQ-7 Shadow's 109 km.
Which can fly higher, the RQ-7 Shadow or Tu-143 Reys?
The Tu-143 Reys has a higher service ceiling at 5,000 meters (16,404 ft) compared to the RQ-7 Shadow's 4,600 meters (15,091 ft).
Which is heavier, the RQ-7 Shadow or Tu-143 Reys?
The Tu-143 Reys has a higher maximum takeoff weight at 1,230 kg compared to the RQ-7 Shadow's 170 kg.
Which is larger, the RQ-7 Shadow or Tu-143 Reys?
The Tu-143 Reys is longer at 8.1 meters compared to the RQ-7 Shadow's 3.4 meters.
Which entered service first, the RQ-7 Shadow or Tu-143 Reys?
The Tu-143 Reys entered service first in 1976, 26 years before the RQ-7 Shadow which entered service in 2002.
Which has been built in greater numbers, the RQ-7 Shadow or Tu-143 Reys?
The Tu-143 Reys has been produced in greater numbers with 950 units compared to 500 units of the RQ-7 Shadow.