Six MQ-9 Block 5 drones sold to Italy by US in a $738 Million agreement.

On August 15, 2024, the U.S. State Department approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Italy. This sale includes six MQ-9 Block 5 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and a comprehensive package of associated military systems and equipment, with the total estimated cost being $738 million. The Block 5 variant can carry various munitions, such as GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs) and AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, and can conduct missions lasting over 16 hours.
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The MQ-9 Reaper Block 5 variant took off in Southwest Asia on June 23, 2017, for its first combat flight in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. (Picture source: US DoD)

The transaction primarily involves the delivery of six MQ-9 Block 5 aircraft, the latest version of the MQ-9 Reaper. Developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, the MQ-9 Reaper, which evolved from the MQ-1 Predator, has been in service since 2007. It is designed for long-endurance, high-altitude surveillance, and precision strike missions, and has been used in various military operations, including those in Afghanistan and Iraq, where it has provided intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and engaged targets with precision-guided munitions.

The MQ-9 Reaper series includes several variants tailored to meet specific operational needs. The MQ-9A model has been widely deployed, offering both surveillance and strike capabilities. Another variant, the MQ-9B, features extended range (ER) capabilities, such as longer wings, external fuel tanks, and enhanced engines, which improve its endurance and operational range. The platform has also been modified for roles including maritime operations, multi-domain operations, and automated take-off and landing.

The MQ-9 Block 5, which Italy is set to acquire, incorporates several upgrades over previous models. These upgrades include increased electrical power generation, improved communication systems, and enhanced software and hardware capabilities. The Block 5 variant can carry various munitions, such as GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs) and AGM-114 Hellfire missiles. It has been deployed in combat operations, where it has demonstrated the ability to conduct missions lasting over 16 hours.

The MQ-9 Reaper Block 5 can carry various munitions, such as the AGM-114 Hellfire missile, the GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bomb, and the GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM). (Picture source: US DoD)

In addition to the aircraft, Italy has requested three Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) MQ-9 Mobile Ground Control Stations (MGCS). These stations are crucial for the operation and control of the MQ-9 aircraft, providing the necessary infrastructure for managing the unmanned systems during missions.

The sale also includes twelve AN/DAS-4 Multi-spectral Target Systems, which provide multi-spectral imaging capabilities for surveillance and targeting. Italy will also receive nine LYNX AN/APY-8 Block 20A Synthetic Aperture Radars, equipped with Maritime Wide Area Surveillance (MWAS) capabilities, enhancing maritime detection and monitoring.

The package includes an Embedded Global Positioning & Inertial Navigation System (EGI) for accurate positioning and orientation during operations. Additionally, various non-Major Defense Equipment (non-MDE) items are part of the transaction, which are essential for the maintenance and operation of the UAS fleet.

These non-MDE items include Reaper/Predator engines, Ruggedized Aircraft Maintenance Test Stations (RAMTS) for testing and maintaining the aircraft, AN/ARC-210 Ultra High Frequency (UHF)/Very High Frequency (VHF) Radios (RT-2036) for communication, and Ground Data Terminals (GDT) for line-of-sight communication.

The MQ-9 Block 5, which Italy is set to acquire, incorporates several upgrades over previous models, including increased electrical power generation, improved communication systems, and enhanced software and hardware capabilities. (Picture source: US DoD)

The sale also encompasses several cryptographic and identification systems, such as the AN/PYQ-10 Simple Key Loaders, KIV-77 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Cryptographic Applique, and Transponder IFF AN/APX-119. These systems are used for secure identification and communication. The package also includes the KY100M Narrowband/Wideband terminal communications security (COMSEC) device, which provides security for communications across different bandwidths.

Supporting overall UAS operations, the sale includes the UAS MQ-9 Fixed Ground Control System (FGCS) and Satellite Communications (SATCOM) Earth Terminal Subsystems (SETSS). These systems provide the necessary infrastructure for satellite-based communication and control of the unmanned aircraft. The transaction further includes precision navigation systems, integration and test support equipment, aircraft and engine support equipment, spare parts, consumables, and repair and return support.

The sale includes provisions for major modifications, maintenance, and support services, including facilities and construction support, transportation and airlift services, and both classified and unclassified software support. Italy will also receive classified and unclassified publications, technical documentation, personnel training, and training equipment as part of the deal.

Additionally, the package covers special insurance and warranties, as well as studies and surveys to support the integration and sustainment of the equipment. U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services are included to assist Italy in the operation and maintenance of these systems.