Iran-backed militias claim to shoot down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone in Diyala, Iraq.

In a recent development, Iran-directed militias have claimed to have downed a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone over Diyala, Iraq. This claim has been substantiated by video footage showing a large mid-air explosion, along with photographs circulating that display the wreckage of the drone.

The MQ-9 Reaper is a significant asset in the U.S. military’s arsenal, known for its advanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, along with precision strike potential. Key specifications of the MQ-9 Reaper include:

Role: Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) primarily used for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and precision strikes.
Manufacturer: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems.
First Flight: February 2, 2001.
Operational Range: 1,852 km (1,150 miles).
Endurance: Up to 14 hours fully armed.
Payload: Capable of carrying both munitions and sophisticated sensor suites.
Armament: Equipped with a variety of weapons, including the GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bomb, the AGM-114 Hellfire II air-to-ground missiles, and more.

This incident reflects the ongoing complex geopolitical tensions in the region, especially involving U.S. military presence and activities, and the influence of Iran-backed militias in Iraq.