•Date: November 12, 2013
•Aircraft: General Atomics MQ-9A Reaper
•Owner/Operator: 174th Attack Wing, United States Air Force (USAF)
•Location: Lake Ontario, United States
•Phase: En route
•Nature: Military operation
•Damage: Written off (damaged beyond repair)
•Base: Wheeler Sack Army Airfield, Fort Drum
Vessel Type Description #
The General Atomics MQ-9A Reaper is a medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) used by the U.S. military for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and targeted strike missions. It is equipped with advanced sensors, precision-guided munitions, and a highly sophisticated control system. Powered by a single turboprop engine, the Reaper can reach speeds of up to 300 mph, operate at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet, and has an endurance of over 27 hours. Its versatility and endurance make it a critical asset for military operations across a variety of mission types.
Incident Overview #
On November 12, 2013, a General Atomics MQ-9A Reaper operated by the 174th Attack Wing of the USAF was lost over Lake Ontario during a routine military mission. The Reaper was in the en route phase of its mission when it encountered technical difficulties, leading to a complete loss of control. Despite efforts by the remote operators to regain control, the aircraft ultimately crashed into Lake Ontario. This incident highlights the risks inherent in operating sophisticated UAVs, even with the advanced technology designed to minimize such risks.
Final Disposition #
Following its crash into Lake Ontario, the MQ-9A Reaper was classified as damaged beyond repair and written off. No specific recovery efforts or the wreckage location have been publicly disclosed.
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The National Guard, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Sources & Links #
•General Atomics Aeronautical Systems
Conclusion #
The crash of the MQ-9A Reaper into Lake Ontario on November 12, 2013, serves as a reminder of the challenges UAV operations face. Despite the advanced technology and design, incidents such as this underscore the importance of continuous improvements in UAV reliability and operator training to minimize the risks of future mission failures. This crash remains a significant case study for military and aviation professionals as they work to enhance the safety of unmanned systems.
Keywords: MQ-9A Reaper, UAV crash, 174th Attack Wing, Lake Ontario, unmanned aerial vehicle, military aviation incident, drone crash, UAV safety.
