Air Force Accelerates MQ-9 Reaper Replacement Amid Heavy Combat Losses
The U.S. Air Force is fast-tracking the development of the Mass Modular Aircraft (MMA) to replace the MQ-9 Reaper drone after losing at least 45 units in the Iran conflict. Officials aim for a $10 million unit cost and plan to field 180 drones within three years, prioritizing modularity and automation over advanced technology to manage expenses.