Monday, August 25, 2008 Free Headline Alerts
BAGHDAD — The U.S. military has claimed success after deploying the MQ-9 (Reaper) combat unmanned aerial vehicle in Iraq.
On Aug. 16, the UAV dropped a 500-pound bomb on an insurgency target in southeastern Iraq as part of a plan to reduce manpower in ground operations.
During one patrol, Reaper discovered a suspicious vehicle, and operators relayed the information to a ground unit.
Soon, the ground patrol identified the vehicle as a booby-trapped car, or vehicle-borne improvised explosive device. The military then ordered Reaper to drop a GBU-12 laser-guided weapon to destroy the car.
Officers said the Aug. 16 mission by Reaper was a success and destroyed a car bomb. They said this marked one of the first weapons engagements for the unmanned aircraft system.
"We are here to integrate airpower into joint operations in Iraq, and ensuring we make the most of our unmanned-aerial-system capabilities is just one of many ways we do that," Gen. Brian Bishop, commander of the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing, said.
"With our ability to provide persistent stare and persistent strike, we provide a clear battlefield assessment and quick responses to commanders when they need it."
In July 2008, the Reaper began flying combat missions in Iraq. The military has also been using the MQ-1 Predator UAV in combat missions.
The Reaper has been operated by the 46th Expeditionary Reconnaissance and Attack Squadron at Joint Base Balad.
"This was a great example of the Reaper's unique capabilities," Lt. Col. Micah Morgan, the 46th ERAS commander, said. "We searched for, found, fixed, targeted and destroyed a target with just one aircraft."
Officials said UAVs would comprise a key element in the U.S. military's plan to reduce forces in Iraq over the next two years. They said the military would increase both reconnaissance and combat UAV missions to compensate for a sharp drop in military manpower.