US' $200 million Drone, MQ-4C Triton, Disappears Over Strait Of Hormuz After Distress Signal

Washington: The United States Navy surveillance drone, MQ-4C Triton, suddenly disappeared  over the Strait of Hormuz on Friday. The drone, which is considered Washington’s most expensive, vanished after sending an in-flight emergency alert.

Where was the US drone?

According to media reports, the drone was returning to its base at Naval Air Station Sigonella in Italy, after completing a three-hour surveillance of the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. 

As per the online flight tracking website Flightradar24, the drone suddenly diverted its course slightly toward Iran and simultaneously sent the code 7700, a common emergency signal. The drone then began a rapid descent and disappeared from radar shortly thereafter.

Did the drone crash?

It is not yet clear whether the drone crashed or was shot down. The incident occurred just two days after a ceasefire was reached between the US and Iran, and Iran agreed to open the Strait of Hormuz to shipping.

What are the features of the MQ-4C Triton drone?

The MQ-4C Triton drone is a highly advanced and expensive drone, reportedly costing over $200 million (approximately over Rs 1,600 crore). This drone can monitor large areas by staying aloft for extended periods of time. 

The drone is specifically designed for maritime surveillance and can fly at altitudes exceeding 50,000 feet and operate continuously for over 24 hours. 

The MQ-4C Triton drone range is approximately 7,400 nautical miles, allowing it to conduct surveillance over vast distances. This drone often works in conjunction with patrol aircraft like the P-8A Poseidon, providing them with vital information. By 2025, the US Navy had 20 such drones and plans to purchase seven more.

What is the cost of Iran war?

The US is facing enormous costs due to the US-Iran war. According to reports, the US is spending approximately $10,300 (approximately Rs 9.8 lakh) every second. The largest daily expenditure is on weapons and missiles, amounting to approximately $320 million (approximately Rs 3,040 crore). 

Additionally, approximately $245 million (approximately Rs 2,327 crore) is being spent daily on air operations. Approximately $155 million (approximately Rs 1,472 crore) is being spent on maritime operations.

Does missile defence system costs crores?

Missile defense systems like THAAD, Patriot, and Aegis cost approximately $95 million (approximately Rs 902 crore) daily. Intelligence and cyber operations cost approximately $45 million (approximately Rs 427 crore), and troops and other systems cost approximately $30 million (approximately Rs 285 crore). This incident comes at a time when the situation is already sensitive, and the disappearance of this drone could further escalate tensions.