The causes of the crash remain unclear ... It was developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, based on the MQ-1 Predator, primarily for the U.S. Air Force. The drone's turboprop engine ...

Ultimately, France was lucky that the Su-35 that intercepted their MQ-9 only decided to harass the unmanned system.

The MQ-1's capabilities make it uniquely qualified to conduct irregular warfare operations in support of combatant commander objectives. The Predator is part of a remotely piloted aircraft system.