US Marine Corps receives first MQ-9 Reaper drone

The US Marine Corps ordered eight MQ-9 Reaper drones last year. The first drone has recently been delivered.

Here's What We Know

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-AS) has been awarded $136m to produce the MQ-9 Reaper drones in 2022. The remaining seven drones will be delivered to the US Marine Corps by the end of this year. The deal was facilitated by the US Navy.

The Reaper is a Group 5 unmanned aerial system. The purchase decision was made on the backdrop of the US Air Force's successful use of the MQ-9. The drones will enable the Marines to improve reconnaissance missions.

The MQ-9 Reaper was designed as an unmanned platform that will be able to gather intelligence for the military. It is now being used to strike enemy targets due to its ability to carry high-precision munitions.

The US Marine Corps will use drones outside the country. In particular, they will support operations in the Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility. Lieutenant Colonel Leigh Irwin, director of the MQ-9 programme, made the announcement.

Source: NAVAIR