The US Air Force recently carried out important tests during which the MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aircraft demonstrated its unique capabilities in combat missions. During the tests at the landfill in New Mexico, this drone landed on the soil lane, quickly refueling, rearmed, and then rose again into the sky, continuing its mission. An important feature of this experiment was that the management of Dronov was done with the help of satellite communication, which allowed to perform surgery at a long distance, more than 1770 km from the landing site.
These tests have become part of the exercises aimed at improving the maneuverability and efficiency of the MQ-9 drones, as well as to expand their capabilities to perform tasks in all conditions. Previously, such devices required asphalt runways and infrastructure, which is a luxury for the military in critical situations. However, new achievements through satellite management allow MQ-9 drones to work in conditions where conventional airfields are not available. The MQ-9 UAV landed on the soil strip, which confirmed its ability to work in conditions without developed infrastructure. During the operation, the crew, which was more than 1700 km away, successfully managed the drone through a satellite communication. After refueling and re-equipment, the MQ-9 returned to its tasks, confirming its effectiveness in complex operations.
The trials have become an important step in the development of drones for military operations, as they demonstrate the ability to MQ-9 to perform combat tasks in a variety of conditions, regardless of traditional infrastructure. The US Air Force understands that future conflicts, especially in high threats, will require new approaches to the use of aviation. In particular, ACE (Agile Combat Employment), which was noted during exercises, reduces the risks and improve the mobility of military units.
Drone can work in high -risk areas where manned planes cannot perform the task effectively. Due to the ability to refuel and re-equipped on the field, MQ-9 can act at long distances without the need for long pauses for maintenance. Continuous improvement MQ-9 allows you to use it to perform various tasks, from intelligence to combat operations with high accuracy.
MQ-9 Reaper is a key element in the US Air Force's strategic potential, and its capabilities will only expand. By giving up dependence on large aerodromes and asphalted lanes, the US will be able to ensure the effective use of drones in any region, in particular in potential hostilities with countries such as China. The development of satellite management and autonomous operations opens new horizons for the XXI century military strategies.
