US Army Loses Second Drone In Niger

The United States military base in Niger says that it has lost another drone, making it the second loss in two months.

The US military explained that the loss came not from a hostile attack but a mechanical failure.

Speaking with AFP, the US Africa Command said, “A… remotely piloted aircraft was lost near Agadez, Niger, April 23.

“U.S. forces secured the RPA on April 24. Reports indicate the RPA experienced mechanical failure. The RPA was not lost due to any hostile action,”

The first loss happened on 29 February in the Agadez region, with the US military stating that the loss was due to a mechanical failure.

READ ALSO: US VS Iran: US Military Base In Kenya Attacked

The Military Times said that the drone that was lost in February was the MQ-1 Predator.

A specialised drone has been in use by the United States Africa Command in the Agadez region, used to provide intel for the forces in the region.

Niger has authorised the use of drones in the country by US forces, as they - a collaboration between the US forces and the Nigerien Army - to combat the presence of jihadist groups in the country.