Unboxing a WW2 Drone Motor
A rare WWII target drone engine reveals the technology used to train anti-aircraft gunners and helped shape the future of unmanned flight.
July 18, 2026
In this episode of The Artifacts, Ghosts of the Battlefield unboxes an engine from a World War II-era target drone. Small unmanned aircraft such as the Radioplane OQ series were used to give anti-aircraft gunners realistic moving targets during training.
Carefully unpacking the engine offers a rare look at the compact piston technology that powered these early drones. Original markings, components, and military contract information may help reveal more about its manufacturer, production date, and service history.
More than an aviation relic, this engine represents an important step in the development of unmanned aircraft. Comparing its simple mechanical systems with today’s drones shows just how far the technology has advanced—and how many modern ideas began much earlier than most people realize. Click Below to see the video.