US Military Shifts Reaper Drones from Africa to South America

The United States military is transferring its fleet of MQ-9 Reaper drones from the US Africa Command to the US Southern Command. This redeployment aims to bolster counternarcotics and counterterrorism operations across South America, with potential missions identified in Ecuador. The shift aligns with Trump administration plans to expand land-based operations alongside regional partners.

While the exact number of aircraft is unspecified, sources indicate that most assets currently operating in Africa will be moved. This strategic pivot occurs despite warnings from military leaders that al-Shabaab and ISIS remain active threats in Africa. Officials expressed concern that removing these surveillance and strike capabilities will hinder counterterrorism efforts in the region.

Additionally, some officials are evaluating whether a portion of the drone fleet should be diverted to the Middle East. This potential diversion would replace assets lost during the conflict with Iran.