The GA-ASI MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is the first hunter-killer UAV designed to complete both high-altitude surveillance and precision strikes. A creature of the modern age, the MQ-9 first flew in 2001 and was first adopted in 2007. Bigger, faster, and more heavily armed than the GA MQ-1 Predator drone, the Reaper represents the mature phase of armed drone development and is capable of conducting long-duration missions, remote targeting, and powerful surveillance operations.

Still, the MQ-9 is merely a bridge to more advanced drone systems, like those that will be designed to operate with fully autonomy and/or with stealth characteristics. The system is already becoming obsolete—particularly given its tendency to struggle against outdated air defense systems. 

The MQ-9 Reaper’s Specifications

Capable of conducting both surveillance and strike operations, the Reaper’s payload can be adjusted based upon the needs of the day’s mission. The Reaper’s standard payload capacity is 3,800 pounds. For weaponry, the drone can handle up to........

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