ICAO24-address 3FB101 is from Germany [ DE ] (Unmanned)

[alpey]

Hi all

Into Rhein UIR EURO1 FL530
  99+01 Northrop Grumman RQ-4E Euro Hawk ZZZZ EHS001 -  3FB101 EADS Manching 2010  2011-07-21
Remarks: Using unexpected ICAO24 address 3FB101, instead of 3FB181.UAS (Unmanned Aerial System)

http://www.airliners.net/photo/Germany---Air/Northrop-Grumman-RQ-4E/1959239/L/

[mezoo]

Interesting - didn't know they were still allowed to fly after the programme was cancelled due to budget overrun and safety concerns.

Now that I know the reg, I found that my system picked up 3FB101 on the 6.6.13 for two hours around FL540. Squaking 6321 to 3363.

Didn't see 3FB181 yet.
Will keep an eye open for it.

[satcom]

This may have been the last flight
3FB101 has been used all through the proving flights....but rumour is that although the project is cancelled the tests would continue until September

Question now is what will we replace the Sentinel with as Eurohawk was
supposed to take over when the Sentinels are retired in a few years time