In a significant escalation of the Yemen conflict, Houthi rebels have shot down seven US MQ-9 Reaper drones in under six weeks, US defence officials confirmed in April 2025.
A MQ-9 Reaper drone, valued at approximately $30 million, brings the total loss to over $210 million, marking a costly setback for Washington’s campaign against the Iran-backed group.
Three of the seven drones were downed in the past week, indicating enhanced targeting capabilities by the Houthis. The unmanned aircraft, used for surveillance and strikes over Yemeni territory, crashed into the sea or onto land. Built by General Atomics, Reaper drones typically operate above 40,000 feet, underscoring the sophistication of Houthi anti-aircraft systems.
Houthi rebels have shot down 7 US Reaper drones worth $200 million in recent weeks | Click on the image to read the full story https://t.co/jfWl8PxlRU
— WTAE-TV Pittsburgh (@WTAE) April 25, 2025Since March 15, 2025, the US has conducted daily strikes under an expanded directive from President Donald Trump to neutralise Houthi missile and drone threats to Red Sea and Gulf of Aden maritime trade. US Central Command reports over 800 targets hit, including weapons depots, command centres, and drone launch sites. Despite these efforts, Houthi attacks on military and commercial vessels persist, prompting the deployment of two US aircraft carrier groups, the USS Harry S. Truman and USS Carl Vinson.
The intensified US air campaign has raised concerns about civilian harm. A strike on the Ras Isa fuel terminal reportedly killed over 70 people, prompting US senators to demand greater accountability in a letter to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. Lawmakers urged improved measures to mitigate civilian casualties, highlighting the need for transparency in military operations.
Read: Trump Posts Video of U.S. Strike Killing Huthi Fighters
The loss of seven Reaper drones underscores the growing financial and strategic toll of the Yemen conflict. US officials are investigating the incidents while reaffirming their commitment to protecting regional interests and international shipping.
The Houthis’ ability to sustain attacks despite heavy US strikes signals a prolonged and costly conflict ahead. The loss of each MQ-9 Reaper drone, valued at around $30 million, brings the total damage to over $210 million, representing a significant setback for Washington’s campaign against the Iran-backed group.
