The U.S. Has Lost a Quarter of Its MQ-9 Reaper Fleet in the War with Iran — WP

The U.S. military has lost at least 45 MQ-9 Reaper drones during combat operations against Iran. This represents about a quarter of the total U.S. fleet of such drones.

The Washington Post, citing information from three officials, reported that the U.S. deployed MQ-9 Reaper drones near the Strait of Hormuz—a vital route for global shipping that has become one of the main flashpoints of the conflict.

According to the publication, the MQ-9 Reapers have become relatively easy targets for the Iranian military, as well as for groups allied with Iran in Yemen and Iraq.

These drones fly at low speeds and often at low altitudes, making them vulnerable to air defense systems.

MQ-9 Reaper drones are used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and strike missions. The cost of a single drone can range from $30 million to $50 million, depending on the sensors and weapons it carries.

According to the Washington Post, the potential cost of the U.S. Reapers already lost exceeds $1.3 billion.

As the WP reports, the loss of these drones has become yet another factor depleting the U.S. military arsenal amid the protracted war with Iran.

As a reminder, 56 people have been executed in Iran, and more than 100 others may face execution.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the Strait of Hormuz could be fully open to international shipping as early as August 4. After that, he said, Washington and Tehran will move on to a new phase of negotiations focused on Iran’s nuclear program.

U.S. President Donald Trump also called on American oil companies to immediately lower gasoline prices for consumers. Separately, he criticized Chevron CEO Mike Wirth.