Unrivaled Giants: Unveiling the World's Largest and Costliest Military Aircraft
2. Global Hawk RQ-4
Entered Service: 1998
Retirement Status: N/A
Cost: $222.7 Million
The RQ-4 Global Hawk is a high-altitude, long-endurance surveillance drone conceived by Ryan Aeronautical, now part of Northrop Grumman. Tasked with extended reconnaissance, it rivals the legendary U-2 Dragon Lady in gathering critical intelligence.
Armed with high-resolution synthetic-aperture radar, the Global Hawk delivers unmatched situational awareness, justifying its $222.7 million price tag.
In brief, the RQ-4 empowers commanders with real-time data while keeping crews out of harm’s way, showcasing the strategic value of unmanned systems.
RQ-4 Global Hawk
Using advanced EO/IR sensors, a single Global Hawk can scan up to 40,000 square miles daily—an area the size of South Korea. Program costs total about $10 billion, with individual research and development figures ranging from $131.4 million to $222.7 million.
Ultimately, the Global Hawk delivers broad coverage and precise intelligence, cementing its role as a linchpin of modern reconnaissance.
