The U.S. Marine Corps has recently dispatched a number of MQ-9A “Reaper” drones to Kadena Air Base located on Okinawa, Japan. This move is aimed at enhancing military training and improving Japan’s defense capabilities, according to a report from the military newspaper Stars and Stripes.
The MQ-9A “Reaper” is a versatile unmanned aircraft known for its medium-altitude, high-endurance operations. With a wingspan of 66 feet and a flight endurance of up to 27 hours, it can be operated remotely or autonomously, making it a vital asset in military operations.
The Reaper drones are designed to bolster the Marines’ capabilities in contested littoral environments, providing long-range intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). This initiative reflects the Marines’ commitment to enhancing unmanned aviation capabilities for effective operations in challenging situations.
Okinawa is strategically positioned within the first island chain, a military containment strategy that stretches from Japan to Taiwan and the Philippines, aimed at curbing China’s military reach. Recent Chinese military activities, including drone flights near this critical region, have underscored the importance of the U.S. presence in the area.
According to the report, the Marine Corps is collaborating with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3, which has been utilizing various types of drones since its inception. The squadron achieved initial operational capability with the Reaper earlier this year.
Local authorities were informed that fewer than six U.S. Marine Corps drones will be stationed at Kadena for ISR operations, operating on a temporary deployment for a year. While the exact number of drones remains classified for security reasons, photos released by the Corps show the Reaper systems arriving at Kadena via an Air Force transport aircraft.
In addition to the newly arrived Reapers, ten other American drones are already stationed at Kadena. These consist of eight Air Force Reaper drones and two Navy MQ-4C “Triton” drones, which are set for withdrawal next month. While the Air Force variant can carry weaponry, the Triton specializes in maritime ISR operations.
Kadena Air Base is often referred to as the “Keystone of the Pacific,” vital for U.S. air power in the region. Additionally, the Pentagon has announced plans to deploy 36 F-15EX “Eagle II” fighter jets at Kadena to enhance air defense capabilities.