The United States has lost seven MQ-9 Reaper drones in Yemen since March 15, according to a U.S. official on Monday (April 28). It is believed that Houthi rebels in Yemen shot down the drones. Each drone is worth approximately USD 30 million, or about BDT 365 crore, bringing the total estimated loss to BDT 2,555 crore.
The U.S. began intensified airstrikes against the Houthis in mid-March, using MQ-9 Reaper drones primarily for reconnaissance, though they are also equipped for high-precision strikes.
Aircraft Falls from U.S. Warship
On the same day, the U.S. Navy reported that an F/A-18E fighter jet fell into the Red Sea from the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. The aircraft, worth about USD 67 million (over BDT 810 crore), was being moved when a crew member lost control, causing both the jet and a tow tractor to fall into the sea. One sailor sustained minor injuries.
No one went missing during the incident, and the other aircraft onboard remain undamaged. The Navy has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the mishap.
The USS Harry S. Truman is one of two U.S. aircraft carriers currently operating in the Middle East. Since March, both carriers have been launching airstrikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen.