An MQ-1 Predator crashed north of Balad Air Base (IRAK) at approximately 10:40 p.m. local time June 2.
The unmanned aerial vehicle was approximately 2 kilometers from the base.
The aircraft is a medium-altitude, long-endurance, remotely piloted aircraft. The Predators primary mission is conducting armed reconnaissance.
A board will be convened to investigate the accident

MQ-1 Predator`s General Characteristics:
Primary Function: Armed reconnaissance, airborne surveillance and target acquisition
Contractor: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Incorporated
Power Plant: Rotax 914F four cylinder engine
Thrust: 115 horsepower
Wingspan: 48.7 feet (14.8 meters)
Length: 27 feet (8.22 meters)
Height: 6.9 feet (2.1 meters)
Weight: 1,130 pounds ( 512 kilograms) empty
Maximum Takeoff weight:  2,250 pounds (1,020 kilograms)
Fuel Capacity: 665 pounds (100 gallons)
Payload: 450 pounds (204 kilograms)
Speed: Cruise speed around 84 mph (70 knots), up to 135 mph
Range: up to 400 nautical miles (454 miles)
Ceiling: up to 25,000 feet (7,620 meters)
Armament: two laser-guided AGM-114 Hellfire missiles
Crew (remote):  Two (pilot and sensor operator)
Initial operational capability: March 2005
Unit Cost: $40 million (fiscal 1997 dollars) (includes 4 aircraft, ground control stations, and Predator Primary Satellite Link)
Inventory: Active force, 102; ANG, 0; Reserve, 0