Reaper drones set to soar with small cruise missile upgrade
The MQ-9A Reaper drones could gain new capabilities with the addition of small cruise missiles, allowing them to conduct operations akin to those of fighter jets.
According to Defense One in Tampa, Florida, at the SOF Week event organised by the Global SOF Foundation, Lieutenant General Michael Conley from 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 reduction in the size of cruise missiles, older drones may acquire capabilities similar to those of 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 were successfully completed in March, aligning with AFSOC's strategy of increasing efficiency without the necessity of procuring costly new aircraft.
Advancements in technology reduce the cost and complexity of weapons, opening the market to new missiles and manufacturers, including startups from Silicon Valley. However, the integration of a new missile with Air Force aircraft requires unique competencies and partnerships.
A Leidos representative stressed that "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 faced opponents with limited air defence capabilities, but this situation is evolving. Even small groups, such as the Houthis in Yemen, are rapidly developing new strategies and tools to counteract larger forces, as demonstrated by their downing of several Reapers.
Conley remarked, "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 also noted that the demand for AFSOC's participation in exercises in Asia and Europe is increasing, while the demand for missions with CENTCOM remains stable. This creates an urgent need to diligently pursue and develop new capabilities in a cost-effective manner.
