US military moves drones to South America: Report

The US military is expected to transfer MQ-9 Reaper drones currently operating in Africa to the US Southern Command, CNN reported Friday, citing sources familiar with the plans.

The move is reportedly part of a broader deployment of military equipment to South America as US officials emphasize partnerships for possible counternarcotics and counterterrorism operations.

Last year, the US deployed MQ-9 drones, F-35 fighter jets, and at least one AC-130 gunship to the Caribbean during operations targeting alleged drug boats.

The latest move follows public plans by Trump administration officials to expand operations on land alongside South American partners.

The exact number of MQ-9s being transferred from the US Africa Command remains unclear, although one source said it was “most” of the drones.

Three sources said the transfer is linked to anticipated counternarcotics and counterterrorism missions, potentially including operations in Ecuador, where the US has conducted military operations against “designated terrorist organizations” since earlier this year.

Another source said discussions continue over whether some drones could instead be sent to the Middle East, where the US has lost military assets, including MQ-9s, during its war against Iran.

The redeployment comes despite continuing terrorist threats in Africa. US military leaders have warned that ISIS (Daesh) and al-Shabaab remain active as the US presence has declined.

Although strikes and joint operations continue, some sources voiced concern that removing the MQ-9s could make counterterrorism missions in Africa more difficult.