Kratos and NCSIST unveil Mighty Hornet IV UAV, transforming MQM-178 ahead of Taipei showcase

By Defence Industry Europe

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. and Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) have jointly introduced the Mighty Hornet IV Attack UAV, a transformation of the MQM-178 target drone. The advanced system will be presented at the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition (TADTE), taking place from 18 to 20 September at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center.
Photo: Kratos.

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. and Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) have jointly introduced the Mighty Hornet IV Attack UAV, a transformation of the MQM-178 target drone. The advanced system will be presented at the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition (TADTE), taking place from 18 to 20 September at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center.

 

The partnership includes an agreement for Kratos to market the Mighty Hornet IV internationally, highlighting its potential to address global defence requirements. The UAV builds on the MQM-178’s performance, with a speed of Mach 0.8, high G manoeuvrability, and a service ceiling exceeding 35,000 feet.

Steve Fendley, President of Kratos Unmanned Systems Division, said, “The Mighty Hornet IV marks a significant leap in military capability for Taiwan and a natural extension of the aerial target support Kratos has provided Taiwan for the last 15 years. This groundbreaking collaboration truly highlights Kratos’ commitment to innovation and excellence in the defense sector.”

 

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The Mighty Hornet IV is designed to deliver cutting-edge technology combined with proven operational performance. Recent demonstrations of the MQM-178 confirmed its reliability and adaptability, supporting both Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) and loitering munition scenarios while validating its advanced flight profile.

The unveiling at TADTE 2025 will showcase Taiwan’s emphasis on resilience and innovation in defence. It also underlines Kratos’s ongoing role in shaping the future of military aerospace technology.

 

 

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