Russian jet's risky maneuvers near French Drone raises tensions
On March 2, 2025, over the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea, a Russian Su-35 fighter jet and a French MQ-9 Reaper drone were involved in an incident. According to Defense Romania, the Russian aircraft made three dangerous passes near the drone, potentially threatening its flight stability. The drone's cameras captured the incident.
The French Ministry of Defense confirmed that the Su-35's maneuvers were deliberate and could have led to a loss of control of the drone. Defense Romania notes that Russia's actions aim to limit freedom of movement in international airspace, which is part of Moscow's broader strategy.
Dangerous Russian maneuvers
Incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft are becoming more frequent. In 2023, a collision occurred between an Su-27 and an American Reaper drone over the Black Sea. In 2024, Su-35s conducted aggressive maneuvers near American drones over Syria.
It's worth remembering that the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea is a key strategic area where the interests of many countries, including Russia, the USA, and France, converge. Russia, with a base in Syria, is intensifying its presence, leading to increased tensions with the West.
French MQ-9 Reaper drones
The French armed forces regularly conduct missions over the Mediterranean Sea to ensure compliance with international law and maintain stability in the region. MQ-9 Reaper drones are crucial for these operations, allowing for monitoring the situation and protecting strategic interests.
The MQ-9 Reaper is an American unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) produced by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. It is a MALE (Medium Altitude Long Endurance) class machine, which can operate at medium altitudes for extended periods. The Reaper was designed as a successor to the earlier MQ-1 Predator model, offering significantly improved performance and combat capabilities.
The MQ-9 Reaper is approximately 36 feet long and has a wingspan of about 66 feet. It is powered by a Honeywell TPE331-10 turboprop engine producing 950 horsepower. It can reach a maximum speed of about 298 mph and a cruising speed of 174 to 193 mph. The maximum operational altitude for this aircraft is around 50,000 feet, with standard missions conducted at about 24,600 feet. The drone can stay airborne for nearly 27 hours and up to 20 hours when fully armed.
The MQ-9 Reaper features six weapon stations that can carry various combat systems, including AGM-114 Hellfire air-to-ground missiles, GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs, and GBU-38 JDAMs, allowing it to engage ground targets accurately.
France acquired MQ-9 Reaper drones in 2013 by signing a contract to deliver 12 Block 1 model aircraft. The transaction, valued at approximately 670 million euros, was carried out through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program with the United States government. Deliveries began in 2013, and the first drones entered service in 2014.
French MQ-9 Reapers have been used in various operations, including reconnaissance and combat missions in North Africa and the Middle East. In 2024, France signed a contract to maintain its MQ-9 Reaper fleet, indicating an ongoing commitment to their use until the introduction of the European Eurodrone system.
