Which fixed-wing propulsion configuration bites into dirty air and pushes behind the UAV?

Which fixed-wing propulsion configuration bites into dirty air and pushes behind the UAV?

• A. Tractor Type
• B. Rear Propeller
• C. Forward Propeller
• D. Pusher Type

Answer: (D)

In fixed‑wing UAVs, propulsion can be mounted at the front (pulling the aircraft through undisturbed air) or at the rear (pushing air backward). A rear-mounted propeller operates in the aircraft’s wake, where the air is disturbed by the wings and fuselage—this is what “dirty air” refers to. The prop behind the airframe pushing air backward to drive the airplane forward is the pusher configuration. That placement matches the description of biting into dirty air and pushing behind the UAV.

In fixed‑wing UAVs, propulsion can be mounted at the front (pulling the aircraft through undisturbed air) or at the rear (pushing air backward). A rear-mounted propeller operates in the aircraft’s wake, where the air is disturbed by the wings and fuselage—this is what “dirty air” refers to. The prop behind the airframe pushing air backward to drive the airplane forward is the pusher configuration. That placement matches the description of biting into dirty air and pushing behind the UAV.