Large combat drone crashes in Afghanistan, origin unknown

A large unmanned aerial vehicle crashed in Afghanistan’s Wardak province, drawing attention for its unusual size. No country has claimed the drone, which some observers believe may be a U.S.-made MQ-9 Reaper.

While MQ-9s are operated by 11 militaries, including Indian forces active in the region, some analysts suggest the drone likely belonged to the United States — the primary operator of this aircraft type. However, no U.S. military command has confirmed a loss, prompting speculation that the drone may have been on a classified intelligence mission.

Photo: Afghanistan International

The wreckage was discovered Thursday near the city of Maidan Shar, according to Afghanistan International. Initial reports suggest the drone suffered a technical failure and crashed on its own. Its size has led to speculation that it may be a high-endurance surveillance or combat platform.

Turkish defense outlet Clash Report identified the aircraft as an MQ-9 Reaper, a medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) drone used by several countries, including the United States, Poland, and India.

A U.S. MQ-9 Reaper UAV has reportedly crashed in Afghanistan. pic.twitter.com/VLzIVPMo8W

— Clash Report (@clashreport) January 1, 2026

Capable of flying for up to 24 hours at altitudes of 13,000 meters (about 42,650 feet) and speeds exceeding 480 km/h (nearly 300 mph), the MQ-9 can carry over 1.5 tons of weaponry.

While MQ-9s are operated by 11 militaries, including Indian forces active in the region, some analysts suggest the drone likely belonged to the United States — the primary operator of this aircraft type. However, no U.S. military command has confirmed a loss, prompting speculation that the drone may have been on a classified intelligence mission.

Military news portal militarnyi.com noted that losses of this type are typically disclosed publicly, and the current silence could indicate a high-priority operation.

(jh)

Source: Polskie Radio