Reaper drones set to soar with advanced cruise missiles
The MQ-9A Reaper drones could soon see enhanced capabilities with the integration of small cruise missiles, enabling them to perform operations similar to those of fighter jets.
According to Defense One, during the SOF Week event in Tampa, Florida, organized by the Global SOF Foundation, Lieutenant General Michael Conley of the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) under the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), outlined the future vision for MQ-9A Reaper drones.
With the decreasing size of cruise missiles, older drones may acquire capabilities akin to fighter jets. "If you could use a gunship, or an MQ-9, or an OA-1K [Skyraider II] that had a small cruise missile that could go four, five or 600 miles and hit a target, that seems like a capability that a combat commander could use," Conley stated.
Miniature cruise missile — the path to success is not easy
AFSOC is collaborating with Leidos to integrate the experimental Black Arrow cruise missile with the AC-130 aircraft. Tests, completed successfully in March, align with AFSOC's strategy to boost efficiency without the need for purchasing costly new aircraft.
New technologies are reducing both the cost and complexity of weapons, opening up the market to new missiles and manufacturers, including Silicon Valley startups. However, integrating a new missile into Air Force aircraft requires specialized skills and relationships.
A representative from Leidos emphasized, "Integrating [a cruise missile] on an operational aircraft, with the battle management system and testing on a government range with an AFSOC crew, is a far cry from testing on a leased aircraft for a demo. Many safety reviews and approvals are required."
Challenges and the future
AFSOC has traditionally operated against opponents with limited air defense capabilities, but this scenario is evolving. Even small groups, like the Houthis in Yemen, are quickly developing new strategies and technologies to counteract larger forces, as demonstrated by their downing of several Reapers.
"We're looking closely at capabilities that the [People’s Republic of China] and Russia are developing. But over time, that technology proliferates. It's shared with other countries that we operate in or around. I think what we're seeing in the broader Yemen area right now is an indicator," Conley explained.
Conley also noted the growing demand for AFSOC's involvement in exercises in Asia and Europe, while the demand for missions with CENTCOM remains steady. This creates an urgent need for efficiently seeking out and developing new capabilities in a cost-effective manner.
