The U.S. State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to the Italian government, marking a significant enhancement in Italy’s aerial surveillance and strike capabilities. The deal, valued at an estimated $738 million, will provide the Italian Air Force with a robust package that includes six MQ-9 Block 5 unmanned aerial systems (UAS), advanced sensors, communication systems, and ground control stations. Italy’s request includes the purchase of six MQ-9 Block 5 Reaper aircraft, three Mobile Ground Control Stations (MGCS), twelve AN/DAS-4 multi-spectral targeting systems, nine LYNX AN/APY-8 Block 20A Synthetic Aperture Radars equipped with Maritime Wide Area Surveillance (MWAS) capabilities, and one Embedded Global Positioning & Inertial Navigation System (EGI). Additional non-major defense equipment includes spare engines, aircraft maintenance test stations, ultra-high frequency (UHF) and very high frequency (VHF) radios, ground data terminals, cryptographic communication systems, and much more. The Reaper’s advanced capabilities will provide Italy with a strategic advantage in addressing current and future security threats. Already operating MQ-9 systems, the Italian Air Force is familiar with the platform’s capabilities, ensuring seamless integration of the newly acquired aircraft into its fleet. The principal contractor for this sale is General Atomics, based in San Diego, California.
The MQ-9 Reaper, developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, is one of the most advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in the world. Known in the United States Air Force (USAF) as a Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA), the MQ-9 has been a game-changer in military operations due to its ability to be remotely controlled or operate autonomously. Designed as an evolution of the earlier MQ-1 Predator, the MQ-9 Reaper is a larger and more capable platform. Its 950-shaft-horsepower turboprop engine enables it to carry 15 times more ordnance than its predecessor, while also cruising at three times the speed of the MQ-1 Predator. This increase in power and payload capacity makes the Reaper an ideal choice for extended missions requiring both surveillance and strike capabilities. First flown in 2001, the MQ-9A Reaper has undergone numerous advancements, resulting in a highly reliable platform with unmatched operational flexibility. It boasts an endurance of over 27 hours and can operate at altitudes up to 50,000 feet. Its 3,850-pound payload capacity allows it to carry up to 3,000 pounds of external stores, including various munitions, radar systems, and surveillance payloads. One of the standout features of the MQ-9 Reaper is its modular design, which allows it to be tailored to specific mission requirements. The inclusion of the AN/DAS-4 multi-spectral targeting system and the LYNX AN/APY-8 Block 20A Synthetic Aperture Radars with maritime surveillance capabilities ensures that the Italian Air Force can conduct effective reconnaissance missions over both land and sea.
In a continued effort to bolster its aerial surveillance and strike capabilities, Italy has pursued an extensive upgrade of its MQ-9A Reaper fleet. Starting in 2008, Italy made its initial Foreign Military Sales (FMS) request for four MQ-9A Reaper drones, alongside ground stations and support services, at a cost of $330 million. The following year, Italy increased its order by two more aircraft. By 2015, the U.S. approved Italy’s request to weaponize its Reapers with Hellfire missiles and laser-guided bombs, making Italy the second nation after the UK to do so. Most recently, on November 9, 2023, the Italian Air Force (ItAF) achieved a milestone with the maiden flight of its newly delivered MQ-9A Block 5 drone, provided by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). This latest acquisition, part of a Mid-Life Modernization (MLM) package, includes upgrades such as enhanced electrical power, automatic takeoff and landing capabilities, improved landing gear, and the advanced Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. The modernization also includes a new Mobile Ground Control Station (MGCS), augmenting the ItAF’s operational flexibility. The upgraded Block 5 RPAs operate out of Amendola Air Base and Naval Air Station Sigonella, reinforcing Italy’s strategic drone capabilities.
The MQ-9 Reaper is a vital asset for alliance members, providing the intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities that are crucial for modern military operations. As NATO places increasing emphasis on interoperability, Italy’s acquisition of additional Reapers aligns with the alliance’s broader goals of ensuring that member nations can operate seamlessly together in joint operations. Italy’s decision to expand its MQ-9 Reaper fleet is a clear indication of the country’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities while contributing to NATO’s collective security framework. The Reaper’s ability to operate in both surveillance and strike roles makes it a versatile tool for addressing the diverse security challenges faced by NATO members today. With the MQ-9 Reaper now in service with several NATO members, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Spain, the platform has proven its value across a wide range of operational environments. Italy’s decision to expand its fleet of MQ-9 Block 5 aircraft further cements the Reaper’s status as a cornerstone of NATO’s aerial surveillance and strike capabilities. This acquisition will enhance Italy’s ability to respond to evolving threats, while also contributing to NATO’s collective security goals.
