U.S. MQ-9 Reaper Drone Worth $30M Shot Down Near Tel Tamr in Syria

Dec 9, 2024, 06:28 PM

A U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone was shot down in a friendly fire incident in northeastern Syria near Tel Tamr, Eastern Syria. The drone, valued at approximately $30 million, was initially claimed by U.S.-backed YPG/PKK forces to be a Turkish Anka UAV. However, upon examination of the wreckage, it was confirmed to be an American MQ-9 Reaper. Preliminary information suggests the drone may have been targeted by militants using MANPADS or Turkish forces with mobile anti-aircraft systems. The incident highlights the complexities and risks of operating in a conflict zone with multiple actors, including U.S.-backed Kurdish forces and Turkish military operations.