Russian jet's aggressive maneuvers challenge French drone
On 2 March 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 Defence Romania, the Russian aircraft made three dangerous passes in close proximity to the drone, which could have threatened its flight stability. The drone's cameras captured the incident.
The French Ministry of Defence confirmed that the Su-35 manoeuvres were deliberate and could have led to the drone's loss of control. Defence 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 manoeuvres
Incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft are becoming more frequent. In 2023, there was a collision between an Su-27 and an American Reaper drone over the Black Sea, and in 2024, Su-35s conducted aggressive manoeuvres near American drones over Syria.
It is worth remembering that the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea is a key strategic area where the interests of many countries converge, including Russia, the USA, and France. 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 stability in the region. MQ-9 Reaper drones are crucial for these operations, allowing them to monitor the situation and protect 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 better performance and combat capabilities.
The MQ-9 Reaper is approximately 11 metres long and has a wingspan of about 20 metres. It is powered by a Honeywell TPE331-10 turboprop engine producing 950 horsepower. The aircraft can reach a maximum speed of about 480 km/h and a cruising speed between 280 and 310 km/h. Its maximum operational altitude is around 15,240 metres, with standard missions at about 7,500. 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 carrying various combat systems, including AGM-114 Hellfire air-to-ground missiles, GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs, and GBU-38 JDAMs. These systems allow it to engage ground targets accurately.
France initiated the process of acquiring MQ-9 Reaper drones in 2013 by signing a contract for the delivery of 12 Block 1 model aircraft. The transaction, valued at approximately 670 million euros, was carried out through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme 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 ongoing commitment to their use until the introduction of the European Eurodrone system.
