QF-99B Dart

The QF-99B Dart was an atmospheric and exoatmospheric-capable, twin-engine, carrier-capable, unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) designed by BAE Systems and operated by the United Nations Space Command. The Dart, a modernised variant of the Human-Covenant War-era nicknamed the Wombat, featured several advancements over its predecessor including a vastly improved central processor, which allowed it to match and exceed the performance of most sentient pilots, as well as be remotely operated by an AI; advanced variable geometry three-stage hybrid engines, which could function as turbofans, scramjets or rocket engines; and a threefold increase in payload capacity. The Dart functioned as an unmanned support vehicle, being used to supplement ground or spatial forces in combat and acting as an effective yet somewhat more disposable companion to manned fighter craft. Its small size and low maintenance and support requirements meant that it could be embarked aboard warships that would not traditionally be capable of operating their own fighter craft. This initially began with destroyers, which had traditionally supported only utility aircraft and reconnaissance UAVs, and was later expanded to some merchant vessels, which could launch and recover a small number of Darts for self-defence.