US activates 431st Reconnaissance Squadron to bolster presence in South Korea
- The U.S. Air Force has activated the 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea.
- This unit will fly MQ-9 Reaper drones to enhance surveillance in response to heightened tensions with North Korea.
- The establishment of a permanent drone presence demonstrates the U.S. commitment to regional security and cooperation with South Korea.
In late September 2025, the U.S. Air Force established a permanent drone presence in South Korea by activating the 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron, a revival of a World War II-era unit. The unit, stationed at Kunsan Air Base, will operate MQ-9 Reaper drones, enhancing the surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities in a region facing increased military tensions. With North Korea's continued military developments and assertiveness, the U.S. aims to reassure its allies and deter aggression through this strategic move. The Reaper drones provide a significant advantage due to their extended operational range and capability for both intelligence gathering and combat missions. This action underscores the commitment of the U.S. to uphold regional security, following recent military repositioning efforts that included moving F-16 fighter jets closer to North Korea to form a 'super squadron'. Activating the 431st is seen as part of a broader strategy to reinforce U.S. military capabilities in Northeast Asia amid ongoing concerns over North Korea and other regional threats. The unit's historical roots trace back to World War II, supporting the narrative of ongoing military collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.