MQ-9 Reaper. Provided by the U.S. Air Force. 

U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) has officially confirmed the permanent deployment of the MQ-9 "Reaper," known as the "Hunter-Killer," to Kunsan Air Base.

In a press release on the 29th, the U.S. 7th Air Force announced the establishment of the 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron at Kunsan Air Base, noting that Lieutenant Colonel Douglas J. Slater has assumed command of the unit.

While MQ-9s have previously visited South Korea for temporary training exercises, this marks the first time a unit composed of these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has been permanently deployed.

The 7th Air Force described the MQ-9 as a "multi-mission, medium-altitude, long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft designed for urgent target engagement, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions," adding that it can "support efforts beyond defense missions, such as humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and addressing other regional issues."

It is understood that the MQ-9s deployed to Kunsan Air Base could be utilized not only for monitoring North Korea but also for surveillance missions targeting China’s increasing activities in the Yellow Sea.

The 7th Air Force stated, "The activation of the 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron reaffirms the United States' ironclad commitment to peace and security on the Korean Peninsula," adding that "MQ-9 operations support critical joint U.S.-ROK intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions throughout the Indo-Pacific, enhancing combined capabilities to respond to threats and emerging situations while further strengthening the alliance."

Lieutenant Colonel Slater, the inaugural commander of the 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron, emphasized, "The deployment of the MQ-9 provides robust capabilities in the region," and added, "We are here to support missions, deepen cooperation, and demonstrate our shared commitment to maintaining security and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific." 

Yonhap News