About a dozen MQ-9s lost in the air or on the ground in last week of Iran War
WSJ.COM
MQ-9s
SUMMARY

President Trump ordered the military to strike Tehran's nuclear sites using B-2 bombers and later, MQ-9 Reaper drones. These drones have been pivotal in targeting Iranian missiles and military infrastructure, despite their vulnerability to enemy fire.

Central Command’s videos highlight the MQ-9s' effectiveness, showcasing their ability to loiter and gather real-time battlefield intelligence. The drones, operational since 2007, face criticism for being slow and easy targets against modern defenses.

Amidst a shift in military focus from counterterrorism to countering China, support for the MQ-9 has waned, leading to its production halt.

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