predators

i just got back from the predator hangar (read about them here: http://www.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?fsID=122). the predator is a remotely-piloted aircraft with advanced cameras and two missiles. i got to inspect the aircraft close up, and then i sat and watched the pilots fly around the balad area. the cameras can zoom in close enough to see people walking around on the ground.
we heard five mortars hit the base, and the pilots immediately scanned the countryside, searching for the mortar tubes (which would be hot, and visible in infrared). we found where the insurgents had parked a truck from the warm spot on the ground and we followed the warm tire tracks down the road. we never did find the people who attacked us, but now we know where they shoot from. as far as i know, no one was killed in the attack, so rest easy.
from attack, to interdiction, to writing about it online: 20 minutes. this war boggles the mind. from a technical perspective, tonight was the highlight of my trip so far. talk to you later.