Several MQ-9 Reaper drones from the United States have been deployed over Gaza to assist in locating hostages, according to U.S. officials and a source familiar with the matter. The drones, unarmed and equipped with advanced sensors, have been conducting flights over southern Gaza for about three hours at a time. This marks the first time U.S. drones have been used in this region.
The General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper is an unmanned aerial vehicle that can operate at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet for over 27 hours. It is equipped with sophisticated cameras, sensors, and radars, allowing it to gather intelligence effectively. With a wingspan of 66 feet and a maximum speed of 240 knots, the MQ-9 can carry 3,900 pounds of fuel and is capable of being armed with air-to-ground missiles.
Aside from the U.S. Air Force, the MQ-9 has been acquired by various organizations and armed forces worldwide, including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, NASA, the UK Royal Air Force, the Italian Air Force, the French Air Force, and the Spanish Air Force.
Drones like the MQ-9 offer several advantages over crewed aircraft. They are more cost-effective and safer for operators as they do not require a pilot. Furthermore, their ability to loiter for extended periods allows for prolonged intelligence gathering. According to General Atomics, the cost of operating an MQ-9 is around $3,500 per flight hour, significantly lower than crewed aircraft such as the F-16, which costs approximately $8,000 per flight hour.
In terms of self-defense, the MQ-9 has demonstrated an air-to-air weapons capability during Air Force tests. It can also be equipped with a “Self Protect Pod” that detects threats and deploys countermeasures against surface-to-air weapons.
The use of MQ-9 Reaper drones in Gaza showcases their versatility and effectiveness in aiding hostage search operations. Their presence provides valuable intelligence and surveillance capabilities to assist in resolving the ongoing crisis.
