Bloomberg reported, citing an informed source, that Iran has managed to destroy more than 24 U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drones since the start of the recent war, marking unprecedented losses estimated at approximately $1 billion.

According to the report, these losses represent a significant blow to this aerial capability, as the destroyed drones account for about 20% of the total inventory of this type of unmanned aircraft previously held by the U.S. Department of Defense before the outbreak of hostilities.

The agency noted that several drones were shot down during aerial missions by Iranian fire, while others were destroyed on the ground due to missile strikes or incidents directly linked with ongoing military operations between the two sides.

The MQ-9 Reaper is considered one of the most advanced attack and reconnaissance drones used by the United States for surveillance and targeting operations. Due to its sophisticated technological capabilities, replacing such losses is currently a highly costly and complex process, particularly as Washington faces significant challenges in rapidly producing suitable alternatives.

The report further revealed that the losses of Reaper drones are part of a broader toll suffered by the United States in aircraft during the war. Reports issued by United States Congress indicate that Washington has lost or had damaged approximately 42 aircraft in total, with an estimated value of around $2.6 billion. This includes fighter jets, refueling aircraft, reconnaissance platforms, in addition to Reaper drones—representing a major financial and operational setback for the United States.