The Alabama-based Griffon Aerospace has officially announced the release of its latest unmanned aircraft system, the MQM-172 Arrowhead, a platform designed to serve both as a high-performance target drone and a configurable strike asset.
In a statement shared by Daniel Beck, Airworthiness Manager and Program Manager at Griffon Aerospace, the company described the Arrowhead as a purpose-built system intended to offer unmatched flexibility across multiple mission profiles.
Beck said, “Arrowhead was purpose-built to give our customers unmatched flexibility across multiple mission sets.”
While the Arrowhead is primarily presented as a target drone, it can also be adapted for use as a one-way attack platform. This dual-role capability reflects growing demand for drones that can shift between training and operational use depending on the mission.
Griffon Aerospace emphasized that Arrowhead’s modular design supports a range of applications beyond traditional training.
“In addition to its role as a high-performance target drone, Arrowhead can also be configured as a one-way attack platform—bringing decisive effects when it matters most,” Beck said.
The aircraft features a configurable payload bay capable of carrying up to 100 pounds, allowing for various sensor or warhead options depending on mission requirements. The platform maintains a maneuverable airframe built for durability, a characteristic the company says reflects its broader design philosophy.
Griffon stated that the drone has been “designed, tested, and manufactured” in-house, drawing on its experience with over 12,000 unmanned aerial systems delivered to date.
According to Beck, the launch of the MQM-172 represents the culmination of an extended development and testing process.
“This release represents the culmination of extensive development and testing, and we’re excited to see Arrowhead take its place in the field alongside our other proven platforms,” he said.
The MQM-172 Arrowhead adds to a growing segment of versatile unmanned systems developed by U.S. defense firms seeking to provide armed forces with affordable, rapidly deployable tools for both training and combat use.