USAFE Boosts Arctic Surveillance with MQ-9 Reaper and RQ-4 Global Hawk Drones.

United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) is enhancing its surveillance capabilities in the Arctic by increasing the deployment of advanced drones, including the MQ-9 Reaper combat drones and RQ-4 Global Hawk reconnaissance drones. During the Air, Space & Cyber Conference hosted by the Air Force Association on September 18, 2024, General James B. Hecker, commander of USAFE and NATO Allied Air Command, discussed how these technologies enhance the monitoring of Russian activities in the region.

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General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper Combat Drone  (Picture source: General Atomics )

The MQ-9 Reaper, known for its ability to carry out medium-altitude surveillance missions for up to 27 hours, is ideally equipped to target high-value objectives in permissive areas. This combat drone plays a crucial role in missions that require immediate precision and responsiveness.

The MQ-9 Reaper is a versatile combat drone designed for surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strike missions. It is powered by a Honeywell TPE331-10 turboprop engine, allowing it to cruise at a speed of approximately 370 km/h and reach an operational altitude of 15,000 meters. With an endurance of 27 hours, it can cover vast areas without the need for refueling. The Reaper has seven hardpoints, enabling it to carry up to 1,700 kg of payload, including AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs, and advanced sensors like the Lynx II multi-mode radar. Its sensor suite, which includes electro-optical and infrared cameras, enables precise target identification, providing medium- to long-range precision strike capabilities.

In parallel, the RQ-4 Global Hawk complements the arsenal with its ability to carry out high-altitude reconnaissance missions. Capable of remaining airborne for up to 34 hours depending on the mission payload, the RQ-4 is a key element of long-range surveillance strategy. This reconnaissance drone offers in-depth visibility and can supplement the information gathered by satellites and manned aircraft, which is essential for continuous monitoring of the vast Arctic expanse.

The RQ-4 Global Hawk, with its high-altitude and long-endurance flight capabilities (up to 34 hours), is designed to monitor vast, hard-to-access regions such as the Arctic. By deploying it from the United Kingdom, allied forces can cover the Arctic Circle and its surroundings, detecting naval and aerial movements, notably those of Russia. Thus, the United Kingdom, via NATO, plays a role in the deployment and operation of surveillance systems like the RQ-4 to protect the interests in the Arctic region.

The RQ-4 Global Hawk is a strategic high-altitude reconnaissance drone, specifically designed for long-duration surveillance missions. Powered by a Rolls-Royce AE 3007H turbofan engine, the RQ-4 can reach an operational altitude of 18,000 meters and cruise at a speed of 575 km/h. Its impressive endurance, exceeding 34 hours, allows it to cover thousands of kilometers and conduct extensive reconnaissance missions. The drone is equipped with a suite of sophisticated sensors, including a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) detection systems, and signal collection sensors. These systems enable it to provide high-resolution radar images and real-time intelligence over vast and challenging areas, such as the Arctic. With a wingspan of 39.9 meters and a payload capacity of approximately 1,360 kg, the RQ-4 Global Hawk is a key asset in strategic aerial surveillance.

The extension of RQ-4 operations to RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom, marking a first for this location, illustrates USAFE’s increased commitment to monitoring the Arctic using advanced technology. These cross-border missions in international and allied airspace strengthen the surveillance and reconnaissance posture in an area where confrontations with Russia are frequent.

These initiatives reflect a significant evolution in Arctic surveillance strategy, highlighting the importance of combining offensive and reconnaissance capabilities to ensure comprehensive and effective coverage in the face of growing geopolitical challenges.

RQ-4 Global Hawk Reconnaissance Drone (Picture source : Northrop Grumman)