In a groundbreaking achievement for the Air Force Special Operations Command, the MQ-9 Reaper, a remotely piloted aircraft, has accomplished its inaugural landing on a dirt landing zone. This milestone was made possible by the collaborative efforts of the 2nd Special Operations Squadron, 727th Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, 311th Special Operations Intelligence Squadron, and the 26th Special Tactics Squadron.
U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Alysa Calvarese
Under the leadership of Lt. Col. Brian Flanigan, the director of operations for the 2nd SOS, this achievement represents a major breakthrough in the Air Force’s readiness and transformation efforts. The capability showcased by the MQ-9 Reaper aligns perfectly with the Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment concept, which emphasizes distributed operations, smaller footprints, and enhanced survivability while generating combat power. The successful landing on a dirt landing zone not only expands the operational capabilities of the MQ-9 but also signifies its readiness for future combat scenarios.
This achievement was made possible through the combined efforts of various units. The 12th Aircraft Maintenance Unit from the 727th Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron played a pivotal role by employing ACE techniques, tactics, and procedures to establish a small footprint in the austere location. Maj. Doniell Mojazza, the director of operations for the 727th SOAMXS, emphasized the significance of this initiative in refining maintenance ACE capabilities. The landing in an austere environment presented challenges that allowed the 12th AMU maintainers to assess risks and leverage their expertise and innovation to ensure aircraft airworthiness and mission success.
Furthermore, the MQ-9 Reaper was used in unconventional ways as the teams explored new possibilities. They introduced the concept of “Reaper Express,” which involved attaching a travel pod to the MQ-9. This allowed them to transport important items to remote areas. Although the pod has limited space, it plays a critical role in delivering essential supplies like aircraft parts or blood for wounded personnel during base attacks. This innovative approach showcases the MQ-9 Reaper’s ability to adapt and be versatile, providing unique options that are not typically associated with unmanned aircraft.
The success of the MQ-9’s landing on a dirt landing zone and the implementation of “Reaper Express” highlights the evolving capabilities and transformative nature of the RPA enterprise. Maj. Dan Carlson, the chief pilot for the 2nd SOS MQ-9, emphasized the ongoing expansion of MQ-9 Reaper capabilities and their impact on future and current military operations. The ability to operate the MQ-9 anytime and anywhere is revolutionizing the approach to preparing for combat scenarios, both in the present and the future.
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