The British MoD reports that the MQ-9 Reaper has taken to the air in Afghanistan:
Apparently the RAF is fielding three MQ-9s in Afghanistan, with–presumably–more on the way. That doesn’t sound like a whole lot, but keep in mind that the USAF only has nine in their inventory right now. Interesting that the RAF’s press release emphasized the Reaper’s ISTAR capabilities instead of its killing power. MoD made it sound like nothing more than the next evolution of Predator drones, instead of a new UAV class that emphasizes destructive power over surveillance functions. When the Brits eventually do arm their new toy, it will be able to shoulder a 3800lb ordnance load (eight hellfires and two PGMs) on four external hardpoints. That, coupled with the Reaper’s impressive battlespace loitering ability, makes the MQ-9 an excellent close air support platform. The RAF is making the smart move here by deploying it early on.
