BLUF
United States’ combat losses have reduced the MQ‑9 Reaper fleet to below targets. The Air Force plans to replenish numbers and develop a cheaper, modular, more expendable drone suited for contested environments.Learning Outcomes
- Assess the operational impact of attrition on the MQ‑9 fleet and its implications for sustaining global ISR missions.
- Analyse the shift toward ‘affordable mass’ and how cost, modular design, and scalability influence future airpower capabilities.
- Evaluate modern acquisition strategies (e.g., open architecture, rapid production, and industry engagement) in developing next-generation military platforms.
