Iraqi Mi G 25 shoots down an American MQ 1 Predator, December 23, 2002

An IraqiMiG25shot down a Predator performing reconnaissance over theno fly zonein Iraq on 23 December 2002. This was the first time in history a conventional aircraft and a drone had engaged each other in combat. Predators had been armed withAIM92 Stingerairtoair missiles, and were purportedly being used to bait Iraqi fighters, then run. However, Predators are 1, 800mph slower than MIG25 s and the service ceiling is nearly 60, 000ft lower, making the run segment of any bait and run mission