WILLEMSTAD - The MQ-9 Reaper arrived at Hato airport this week. This is an unmanned reconnaissance aircraft that is flown remotely. With this weapon system, the Defense organization can collect data and information from the air. Under police escort, the system was transported to the military base near the airport.
Defense has taken delivery of three aircraft and two ground stations. They will soon start building the system and testing the new aircraft. The system consists of four aircraft, four ground stations and communication equipment.
Defense is testing the unarmed system on Curaçao because of the favorable weather conditions and availability of airspace. The Reaper can also already be deployed for Defense tasks in the Caribbean. For example, in support of civil authorities or for investigation and supervision.
On July 7, 2021, the first Dutch example rolled out of the factory of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. in Poway, USA. In addition to collecting information quickly and securely, the Air Force can also process, analyze and share it. For example, it can provide a good picture structure and essential information to its own personnel and (coalition) partners, whether or not in a mission area on the ground. The Reaper therefore fits in well with Defense's vision of the future. Information-driven military operations and ground observation from the air and/or space are indispensable in this.
A pilot and a sensor operator carry out the missions. They do not have to be present in the deployment area for this. The system is therefore also called RPAS, Remotely Piloted Aircraft System. In addition, the team consists of technical personnel for maintenance of the device and the systems.
The MQ-9 is expected to be fully operational by mid-2023.