The MQ-90 uses an "aggressive aerodynamic design", based on the ASF-X Shinden II, with a tailless W-wing configuration. The main wings appear to take up most of the MQ-90's planar design, and it has been noted to look like a bat. The wings are split into multiple moving blades, which can retract or extend depending on the situation. This design allows the MQ-90 to maintain stable long-term flight or make extreme maneuvers in battle by manipulating the blades. Operating the left and right blades asymmetrically can even produce lift while turning, without the risk of stalling. The MQ-90 has an air intake in the center of its nose, sporting a shock cone. The rear features another air intake, which results in a reduced risk of stalling. The MQ-90's engine is the same F110 used on the F-2A. Since the MQ-90 does not have a cockpit, the engine occupies nearly the entire length of the fuselage. Despite the aggressive design, the MQ-90 is incapable of supersonic cruising. It can achieve supersonic speeds, but its design emphasis was placed on subsonic speed. A GAU-19 machine gun sits to the left of the MQ-90's nose. An Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) and other radar equipment sits to the right. This equipment uses state-of-the-art GPS technology to navigate. The weapon bays normally hold AAM-4 air-to-air missiles, but they can also carry air-to-ground weapons as well.