The conflict between Ukraine and Russia persists, Ukraine is stepping up its appeals to the United States for the provision of MQ-9 Reaper drones. This request is driven by the urgent need for advanced reconnaissance capabilities as Kyiv gears up for significant counteroffensive operations slated for this year. The MQ-9 Reaper, a highly advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) in the US military’s inventory, is sought primarily for its capability to identify Russian targets deep behind frontlines, an adjustment from its initial request which included strike missions.
Despite the earlier reluctance of Washington to supply these drones over fears of them being shot down or captured by Russian forces, Ukraine has made a notable alteration in its request. According to reports, Kyiv has assured that the Reapers will be employed solely for surveillance, thereby reducing the risk associated with their potential capture or destruction. As Politico reports, Ukraine’s intentions are for the drones to assist in the precise identification of Russian positions, which, when combined with other weapons systems like the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) already covertly provided by the US, could enhance the precision of Ukrainian strikes.
An MQ-9 Reaper was neutralized by a Russian Su-27 fighter jet over the Black Sea earlier this year, an incident that the US European Command described as “reckless” and “unprofessional.”Nonetheless, the Reaper’s advanced features, including its flight endurance and electro-optical multispectral targeting system, make it an asset that Ukraine is eager to acquire, especially in light of the anticipated summer counteroffensive operations.
German defense firm Hensoldt is poised to bolster Ukraine’s air defense with the supply of six high-performance TRML-4D radars, capable of tracking a wide array of aerial targets including drones, missiles, and aircraft. On the other side of the spectrum, Russia has continued to intercept Western-supplied weapons systems like the ATACMS missiles, demonstrating an ongoing and intense technological warfare component of the conflict.
Amidst this backdrop, Ukraine’s persistent request for the MQ-9 Reaper drones reflects its commitment to enhancing its reconnaissance and precision strike capabilities. This request, according to sources, has become more persistent as Ukraine seeks to bolster its military strength ahead of the summer operations.
Relevant articles:
– After ATACMS Delivery, Ukraine Pleads for MQ-9 Reaper Drones From US , The Defense Post, 05/06/2024
– 9 Reaper Drones to Ukraine?, Army Recognition, 05/06/2024
– Ukraine reiterates requests for US MQ-9 Reaper drones: Politico, Al Mayadeen English, 05/04/2024
– Kyiv’s top priority in military aid is MQ-9 Reaper drone – Politico, Ukrainska Pravda, 05/04/2024
– Russia adds Ukrainian President Zelensky to the wanted list, Al Mayadeen English, 05/04/2024