US Loses At Least 45 MQ-9 Drones in Conflict with Iran, Exceeding $1.3 Billion in Damages
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, the Israeli regime’s Channel 12, citing reports and information released by American sources, announced that the U.S. military has lost at least 45 MQ-9 Reaper drones during the war with Iran. This figure is estimated to be approximately one-quarter of the drone fleet prior to the commencement of hostilities.
The Washington Post previously reported, based on statements from three American officials, the destruction or loss of at least 45 MQ-9 units. According to this report, the value of this damage to the United States is estimated to be over $1.3 billion.
Meanwhile, officials from the U.S. Air Force have also expressed concern regarding the attrition rate of the MQ-9 fleet. Christopher Niemi, Assistant Chief of Staff for Warfighting Integration of the U.S. Air Force, recently stated that the force is seeking to accelerate the process of replacing MQ-9s with cheaper and more expendable drones.
Some reports indicate that the number of remaining operational drones is around 135 units, a figure described as below the U.S. Air Force’s required operational level.
The MQ-9 drone is considered one of America’s primary unmanned aircraft for reconnaissance, surveillance, and ground attack missions. The damage inflicted upon this fleet has placed considerable pressure on U.S. operational capabilities in the region.
