Washington, Sep 19 (V7N)- The United States is preparing to reposition military assets from Africa to South America as Washington considers expanding counter-narcotics and counter-terrorism operations in the region.
According to CNN, plans are underway to transfer MQ-9 Reaper drones currently operated by US Africa Command to US Southern Command, which oversees American military activities in South America.
CNN, citing six people familiar with the plans, reported that the exact number of drones involved remains unclear. One source said the transfer could include the “majority” of the MQ-9 fleet currently deployed in Africa.
The MQ-9 Reaper is designed primarily for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions and can also conduct precision strikes. The planned redeployment reportedly comes ahead of potential US counter-narcotics and counter-terrorism operations in South America, including possible missions in Ecuador.
Earlier this year, Ecuador launched joint military operations with the United States against groups designated as terrorist organizations. The developments have raised expectations that US military cooperation and its operational presence in Ecuador could expand further.
The United States previously deployed MQ-9 drones alongside F-35 fighter jets and at least one AC-130 gunship in the Caribbean for operations targeting vessels suspected of drug trafficking. However, officials in the Trump administration have indicated that future operations could increasingly involve ground-based activities in cooperation with South American countries.
The planned withdrawal of drones from Africa could also lead to some of the aircraft being redeployed to the Middle East. A source familiar with the discussions said talks over sending some MQ-9s to the region remain ongoing.
The potential Middle East deployment comes after several US military assets, including MQ-9 drones, were damaged or destroyed during hostilities involving Iran, according to the report. Washington is therefore considering whether additional drones are needed to strengthen its military capabilities in the region.
At the same time, the withdrawal of assets from Africa comes as US officials remain concerned about militant groups operating across the continent. American military officials have repeatedly warned that groups including ISIS and al-Shabaab have sought to expand their capabilities amid a reduction in the US military presence in Africa.
Despite the potential redeployment, the United States is expected to continue airstrikes and joint military operations against militant groups in Africa. Sources told CNN that counter-terrorism operations will continue, although some officials have expressed concern that removing MQ-9 Reapers from Africa Command could make those missions more difficult.
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