00:21Reports now suggest 24 MQ-9 Reaper drones have been lost in the ongoing conflict with
00:29Iran, with total losses estimated at a staggering $720 million.
00:36And the big question is, how is Iran managing to take down some of America's most advanced
00:44unmanned aircraft?
00:46According to multiple reports citing U.S. officials, including recent media coverage, eight of these
00:53drones were shot down in April alone.
00:56That signals a sharp escalation in just a matter of days.
01:01The losses are not random.
01:03They are concentrated in highly sensitive regions, including Shiraz, Isfahan, Kish Island, Keshe
01:11Island, and areas near the Strait of Hormuz.
01:15These are zones with dense and layered Iranian air defense systems.
01:19And it is not just the Reapers.
01:22On April 9th, a high-value U.S. Navy MQ-4C Triton drone worth up to $250 million disappeared
01:33mid-flight.
01:35It reportedly sent an emergency signal before rapidly descending from over 50,000 feet.
01:41While not officially confirmed as shot down, the timing and location have raised serious
01:47suspicions.
01:49So, what is giving Iran the edge?
01:52The answer lies in its Integrated Air Defense Network, a system built over years combining
01:59radar coverage, command networks, and multiple missile platforms.
02:03Among the key systems believed to be in use, medium-range systems like Kordad series, short-range
02:11systems like Majeed, and even long-range platforms like Bavar-373.
02:17Together, they create a layered shield capable of tracking and destroying aerial targets.
02:23And here's the critical vulnerability.
02:27The MQ-9 Reaper, while highly effective in low-threat environments, is not stealthy.
02:34It flies predictable routes, has a large radar signature, and relies heavily on satellite
02:40communication links, all of which make it easier to detect, track, and intercept.
02:47Iranian media has even released videos showing missiles striking drones mid-air, followed
02:53by fiery crashes.
02:55While the Pentagon has not confirmed every loss, the pattern is becoming clear.
03:01In contested airspace, these drones are increasingly vulnerable.
03:06This situation is now triggering a larger debate.
03:09Is the U.S. relying too heavily on drones designed for uncontested skies?
03:14And is it time to shift towards stealthier or cheaper attritable systems?
03:20Because in modern warfare, survivability matters just as much as capability.
03:26And right now, Iran's air defense network is sending a clear message.
03:31Even the most advanced drones are not invincible anymore.
03:46We'll see you in the next one again.
03:47from Sw major in 2021.
03:54Coleman, please touch the ground for estavam in the faraway direction.
03:55We've arrived in these archives.
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03:59Download the One India app now.
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