The AAI Corporation RQ-7B Shadow 200 is a catapult launched high wing monoplane with twin tail booms and pusher propeller and is the standard production system for the US Army’s tactical UAV programme, with 220 individual aircraft having been delivered by mid 2007 out of a total order of 296 with final articles to be handed over in January 2009.

The US Army is also sponsoring an ongoing programme of technical enhancements, including new payloads and heavy fuel engine.

The type was adopted by the US Marine Corps in 2006 as replacement for its ageing Pioneer systems and is currently being transitioned into operational service.

It is also on order by Poland, with deliveries to commence in late 2007.

FAA experimental certification for the type was secured in March 2007.