How a Russian Cold War-Era Jet Took Down a US Drone
Just this March 14th, 2024, a Flanker made headlines again for forcing down a US Air Force MQ-9 Reaper drone over the Black Sea, earning it a badass nicknamed” Reaper Killer.” According to US reports, the incident began with what appeared to be a standard patrol by the Reaper. The situation quickly turned aggressive, with one Flanker engaging in harassing maneuvers, including flying in front of and dumping fuel on the drone. This dangerous escalation culminated in a collision, damaging the Reaper’s propeller and forcing the US to bring it down.
This wasn’t a random event. It serves as a perfect reminder of the Flanker’s impressive history and its continued relevance in today’s world.
Developed to directly compete with the F-15, the Flanker’s origins even involve a dash of Cold War intrigue: rumors of Soviet espionage swirled around its design.
Let’s take a deep dive into the story of this legendary fighter jet, from its mysterious beginnings to its enduring role as a symbol of Russian airpower. Stay tuned!
Credit to : Military TV
