DoD IG Criticizes Air Force Reaper Buy

[ladjf]

1. I believe that if we are going to continue to carry out aerial only type of combat,

the MQ-9,s are exactly what we need. The are primarily designed for carrying out wide area surveillance for many hours per flight.
An array of MQ-9's could effectively monitor every significant square foot of Iraq and Syria simultaneously. Further, that can relay vital target information to fighter jets that are in the air with them. Also, they are capable of carry air-to-air missiles to protect our aircraft that are currently involved in combat. Considering that an F22 carries not only it's pilot by has a cast of about a quarter billion bucks, the MQ-9.s would be saving lives and money.

Ultimately, our more advanced UAV drones will completely replace manned fighters. They will be as effective at a cheaper cost and no loss of life.