MQ-9 Reaper crashed into Mediterranean Sea after propeller decoupled mid-flight
[MALFUNCTION]Dec 16, 2024 · General Atomics Aeronautical Systems · MQ-9 Reaper · United States Air Force (global operations)
Failure Mode
MALFUNCTION
Event Date
Dec 16, 2024
Primary Entity
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems
Robotic Platform
MQ-9 Reaper
Jurisdiction / Location
United States Air Force (global operations)
Audit Standard
Physical State Verified
Incident Abstract & Audit Findings
An MQ-9A Reaper worth $13 million crashed into the Mediterranean Sea on December 16, 2024, after its propeller decoupled from the engine due to failure of a spiral lock ring inside the gearbox. The aircraft was operated by the 20th Attack Squadron from Whiteman AFB, taking off from a U.S.
System & Fleet Architecture
Operating Manufacturer
Hardware Platform
Operational Sectors
Primary Sources & Evidentiary Filings
- Inspect Filing
https://www.airforcetimes.com/news/your-air-force/2025/08/14/lost-propeller-caused-13m-military-reaper-drone-to-crash-into-sea/
https://www.airforcetimes.com/news/your-air-force/2025/08/14/lost-propeller-caused-13m-military-reaper-drone-to-crash-into-sea/
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Details
Incident Context & FAQ
What happened in MQ-9 Reaper crashed into Mediterranean Sea after propeller decoupled mid-flight?
An MQ-9A Reaper worth $13 million crashed into the Mediterranean Sea on December 16, 2024, after its propeller decoupled from the engine due to failure of a spiral lock ring inside the gearbox. The aircraft was operated by the 20th Attack Squadron from Whiteman AFB, taking off from a U.S. European Command location. The crew declared an emergency and ditched the aircraft in the water. The drone was unrecoverable.
When did this incident occur?
The incident is recorded as occurring on December 16, 2024 on the DEPLOY registry. The date reflects the underlying real-world event, not the registry record's creation date.
What robot was involved in MQ-9 Reaper crashed into Mediterranean Sea after propeller decoupled mid-flight?
MQ-9 Reaper by General Atomics is the recorded robot involved in this incident at United States Air Force (global operations).
Has anyone responded to MQ-9 Reaper crashed into Mediterranean Sea after propeller decoupled mid-flight?
No responses to this incident are recorded on the DEPLOY registry. Operators, manufacturers, or affected parties can submit responses to the editorial team; absence is not a guarantee no response was issued.
What is the current status of MQ-9 Reaper crashed into Mediterranean Sea after propeller decoupled mid-flight?
This incident is an active record on the DEPLOY registry; no retraction or correction has been issued.