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 defence crews.

Key Features

• Models of two drones with transport trolleys: KDA-1 and BQM-34A
• Drones can be assembled either on the airfield or suspended under the wings of aircraft
• Can be combined with 1:48 scale models of DB-26B/C, JD-1D Invader, or other drone carrier aircraft
• Decals with different marking options included

Model Information

• Scale: 1:48
• Number of Parts: 29 + 36 (65 total)
• Length: 110 / 146 mm
• Width: 81 / 82 mm
• Includes detailed assembly instructions
• Highly detailed sprues with high accuracy made from quality plastic
• Box size: 247 x 183 x 33 mm