The US Seventh Air Force has announced the reactivation of the 431st Squadron, a World War II-era unit, at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea. This squadron has been designated as an MQ-9 Reaper unit, marking a significant shift in the US military’s operational strategy in the region. The move follows earlier reports from July that indicated plans for an extended deployment of these unmanned aerial vehicles.
Under the leadership of Lt. Col. Douglas J. Slater, the 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron becomes the first permanent unit focused on the MQ-9 remotely piloted aircraft on the Korean Peninsula. Previously, the US had only deployed the Reaper on a temporary basis. This transition is aimed at bolstering US-Korean priorities in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities across the Indo-Pacific theater.
The squadron has been established to enhance joint capabilities to respond effectively to regional threats and emerging situations, thereby strengthening the alliance between the US and South Korea. However, the Air Force has not disclosed specific numbers regarding personnel or the number of MQ-9 Reapers in the newly formed squadron, citing security concerns.
The history of the squadron dates back to its original designation as the 431st Fighter Squadron, which was established in 1943 and deactivated in 1949. The MQ-9 Reaper, known for its long endurance, has a range of approximately 1,150 miles and operates at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet. It is typically employed for intelligence collection and supports various missions including strike coordination and reconnaissance.
The establishment of the MQ-9 unit at Kunsan Air Base is interpreted as a strategic initiative by Washington to monitor activities from both China and North Korea in the Yellow Sea region. Given the Reaper’s capabilities, it can effectively reach key Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Qingdao from the base.
Lt. Col. Slater emphasized the significance of deploying the MQ-9 in the area, stating, “Deploying the MQ-9 brings a powerful capability to the region. We’re here to support the mission, deepen cooperation, and demonstrate our shared commitment to maintaining security and stability across the Indo-Pacific.”
Previously, the Reaper had engaged in rotational deployments to the East Asian territory, where it participated in training exercises that included test-firing inert munitions and facilitating knowledge exchange among personnel to improve readiness. During July and August 2025, Republic of Korea Air Force personnel trained alongside US troops to leverage surveillance data in joint operations, while also helping South Korean crews navigate flightline challenges encountered during extended missions.
