Italy has received US clearance to procure MQ-9 Reaper drones from General Atomics.
Valued at $738 million, the potential foreign military sale covers the supply of six Block 5 Reaper drones and three mobile ground control stations.
Twelve multi-spectral target systems and nine AN/APY-8 synthetic aperture radars will also be delivered to Rome should the sale go through.
General Atomics will also provide necessary maintenance support services, personnel training, and associated spare parts.
According to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the proposed sale “will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the US by improving the security of a NATO ally.”
No timeline was provided in the foreign military sale announcement.
About the Reaper Drone
The MQ-9 Block 5 is an advanced variant of the US Air Force’s MQ-9 Reaper drone.
It features enhanced avionics, improved electrical power, and increased payload capacity.
Its 950-shaft-horsepower turboprop engine allows the drone to reach a maximum speed of 300 miles (482 kilometers) per hour.
Additionally, the Block 5 variant boasts an extended operational range of 1,150 miles (1,850 kilometers) thanks to its increased internal fuel capacity.
Once delivered, the MQ-9s are expected to improve Italy’s capability to meet current and future threats.
The European nation already operates five MQ-9 Block 5 drones, each with precision strike capability.
