The United States Air Force has established a permanent presence of MQ-9 Reaper drones at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea, reactivating the 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron, originally formed during World War II.
This move aims to enhance security in the region amid growing military tensions involving North Korea and China, following recent deployments of F-16 fighter jets closer to the North Korean border.
MQ-9 Reaper drones are long-range unmanned aircraft capable of conducting surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat missions, including the use of Hellfire missiles and laser-guided bombs. With a range of over 2,500 km and the ability to be refueled in-flight, they can monitor not only North Korea but also Taiwan, the East China Sea, and mainland China, which is about 400 km from Kunsan.
According to the Air Force, the presence of drones strengthens intelligence capabilities and demonstrates the United States’ commitment to regional security and cooperation with Pacific allies.
The activation of the 431st squadron marks the second major strategic move by the US in the peninsula this year. In July, the Air Force temporarily transferred 31 F-16 fighter jets and around 1,000 personnel from Kunsan to Osan, forming a “super squadron” closer to North Korea. The transfer is expected to last until October of next year, with the goal of assessing increased operational effectiveness and bolstering security in the region.
Source: CNN | Photo: X @usairforce | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
