MQ-9 Reaper

military aircraft

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Last updated

July 20, 2026

Quick Summary

The MQ-9 Reaper is an advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), also known as a drone, developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. It is an upgraded version of the MQ-1 Predator and was first deployed in Afghanistan in October 2007.1

The Reaper is remotely piloted and can remain airborne for up to 27 hours. It is equipped to carry Hellfire missiles and both laser- and GPS-guided bombs, making it a capable platform for reconnaissance and direct intervention on the battlefield. UAVs like the Reaper are used for strategic and operational reconnaissance, battlefield surveillance, and can directly engage targets.12

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unmanned aerial vehicle
…derivative of the Predator, the MQ-9 Reaper, has improved performance and carries a larger ordnance load. Both the Predator and the Reaper have been used in the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan and have been purchased by allies of the United States.
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…derivative of the Predator, the MQ-9 Reaper, has improved performance and carries a larger ordnance load. Both the Predator and the Reaper have been used in the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan and have been purchased by allies of the United States.
Read More