U.S. 7th Air Force Establishes 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron with MQ-9 Reapers

The United States Forces Korea has officially confirmed the permanent deployment of the MQ-9 Reaper, also known as the "Grim Reaper," on the Korean Peninsula.

On September 29, the U.S. 7th Air Force announced the establishment of the 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron, equipped with MQ-9 Reapers, at Gunsan Air Base. The unit will be commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Douglas J. Slater.

MQ-9 Reaper

Regarding the MQ-9, the 7th Air Force explained, "It is a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle capable of conducting multi-purpose missions, designed for time-sensitive targeting as well as intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations." The statement added, "Beyond defense missions, the MQ-9 can also support humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and efforts to address other regional issues."

The 7th Air Force stated that the permanent deployment of the MQ-9 and the establishment of the expeditionary reconnaissance squadron "reaffirm the United States' unwavering commitment to peace and security on the Korean Peninsula." It further noted, "MQ-9 operations will support U.S.-ROK joint priorities in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance across the Indo-Pacific region, strengthen combined capabilities to respond to threats and emerging situations, and further solidify the alliance."