Naval aviation enthusiasts had a treat this morning when they spotted a Fire Scout MQ-8B drone helicopter on the flight deck of the US frigate Simpson in Grand Harbour.

This is believed to have been the first time that such a drone was seen in Malta.

The Fire Scout is designed to provide reconnaissance, situational awareness, and precision targeting support for ground, air and sea forces.

While used mostly for reconnaissance, such drones can also carry Hellfire missiles, Viper Strike laser-guided glide weapons.

Aviation enthusiasts who went to the quay gate to take a picture of the aircraft this morning were prohibited from doing so by a policeman.

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