News - Yemen: An American study center has pointed to Yemen’s success in dealing a significant blow to Washington by downing the world’s most expensive drones, the MQ-9 Reaper, with approximately 14 of these aircraft shot down in various regions across Yemen.  

The report added that for the Yemenis, inflicting “heavy losses on the U.S. drone fleet serves tactical, strategic, and symbolic goals at both local and regional levels. Strikes against MQ-9 Reaper drones weaken American intelligence and targeting systems."  

The Atlantic Council website noted that Yemen’s ability to shoot down American drones risks these aircraft falling into the hands of U.S. adversaries in the region, potentially forcing the United States to adjust its drone deployment strategy to ensure they are less vulnerable to attacks and targeting.  

The report highlighted that during Sana’a forces’ military operations against ships linked to Israel, there has been a noticeable escalation in the tactical efficiency of Yemenis against American drones. 

Since November 2023, the Yemeni Armed Forces have claimed responsibility for downing fourteen American MQ-9 Reaper drones in a series of operations. 

This intensification of operations and the increased success rate in targeting American drones is unprecedented, demonstrating Sana’a’s improved precision skills and expanded offensive capabilities.