Yemeni Houthis down another US reaper drone amid tensions
The Yemeni Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for shooting down another American MQ-9A Reaper drone. Here, we provide an overview of the American "Reaper's" performance and the context of its downing.
The Yemeni Houthis took credit for shooting down another American MQ-9A Reaper drone. This is purportedly the fourth such unit downed in 2024 alone. Notably, each unit costs approximately £46 million (according to 2011 prices). The Houthis claim to have destroyed up to 14 units, which might align with the documented losses of Reapers since 2019 (11-12 units), most of which have been validated by wreckage photographs.
The Houthis most likely shot down the drone using rather unusual anti-aircraft missiles acquired from Iran, known as 358, Saqr-1, or SA-67. The US Navy has frequently confiscated these missiles from fishing boats in the Red Sea. Additionally, the Houthis also possess several 2K12 Kub and S-125 Neva systems.
MQ-9A Reaper — the US drone that targets terrorists
The MQ-9A Reaper, also known as the Predator B, is an American drone representing a more advanced version of the well-known MQ-1 Predator used by the United States Air Force (USAF). The Reaper's price was approximately £46 million, according to 2011 rates. These types of drones are tasked with reconnaissance and precision attacks, including missions against terrorists.
MQ-9A Reaper drones have been utilised by Americans globally, from Africa and across the Middle East to the border areas between Pakistan and Afghanistan. They most commonly employed AGM-114 Hellfire missiles for attacks, but over time, a version with retractable blades, the R9X Hellfire Ninja, was developed to minimise collateral damage.
MQ-9A Reaper — impressive capabilities and flight duration
The MQ-9A Reaper is classified as a HALE (High Altitude, Long Endurance) drone, allowing it to fly up to 15,000 metres for over 27 hours. It is constructed with stealth technology, providing a relatively small radar cross-section, particularly from the front.
Its specifications include an empty weight of approximately 2,200 kilograms and a wingspan of 20 metres. It is powered by a Honeywell TPE331-10GD engine with a fuel capacity of about 1,770 kilograms. This grants it a considerable operational range but makes it more vulnerable to heat-seeking missiles.
This drone can also carry additional equipment on seven pylons with a total weight of up to 1,700 kilograms. This may include technology such as day and thermal high-resolution cameras, radar, a laser rangefinder and target designator, electronic warfare pods, signal amplifiers, and weaponry.
The armament consists of laser-guided Paveway II bombs, JDAM bombs, anti-tank AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, and even AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, facilitating engagement with other drones or aircraft.
