PNN – A US website has published a report addressing the loss of dozens of advanced and costly US military “Reaper” drones at the hands of Iran.
According to the report of Pakistan News Network the website Ars Technica reported that the US military has lost dozens of Reaper drones—collectively valued at over one billion dollars—during reconnaissance and strike missions over Iran.
The report notes that the Pentagon is now seeking a large number of cheaper drones capable of carrying out such missions.
The website reported that since the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran on February 28, 2026, the U.S. military has primarily used sophisticated, high-cost manned aircraft and drones to conduct airstrikes.
The report adds that this has resulted in the loss of expensive aircraft and helicopters, forcing the U.S. military to scramble to rescue pilots shot down over Iran or the Strait of Hormuz.
General Kenneth Wilsbach, a senior U.S. Air Force official, has described the Reaper as the “most valuable drone” in the Air Force’s arsenal during a U.S. conflict with Iran.
Heavy reliance on Reapers prevents more pilots from being put at risk, but it has also led to Iranian air defenses shooting down dozens of these drones.