The U.S. Air Force has activated a World War II fighter squadron, the 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron, which is now designated as an MQ-9 Reaper drone unit. This squadron is permanently based at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea.

Activated on Sunday under the command of Lt. Col. Douglas Slater, the 431st will serve as a tenant unit of the 8th Fighter Wing, known as “the Wolf Pack.” The new unit’s mission involves deploying MQ-9 Reaper drones for surveillance and intelligence purposes, significantly enhancing security for South Korean allies.

Lt. Col. Slater stated, “Deploying the MQ-9 brings a powerful capability to the region. We’re here to support the mission, deepen cooperation, and demonstrate our shared commitment to maintaining security and stability across the Indo-Pacific.”

In a related development, the Air Force began transferring F-16 Fighting Falcon warplanes to Osan Air Base in August. This move is aimed at consolidating air combat power closer to the North Korean border while strengthening the Seventh Air Force’s support to South Korean defense forces, as reported by Air Force Times.

Originally, the 431st was activated in 1943 by the Fifth Air Force and served across the Indo-Pacific during World War II under the name 431st “Hades” Fighter Squadron. After various postwar transformations, it operated as the 431st Test and Evaluation Squadron before being inactivated in 1992.

The new mission of the 431st will involve utilizing the MQ-9 Reaper, a highly maneuverable drone capable of 24-hour missions and precision strikes. It can carry a variety of munitions, such as AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and GBU-54 Laser Joint Direct Attack Munitions, and has a range exceeding 1,000 miles with exceptional stealth capabilities.

The squadron is expected to conduct surveillance missions across the Pacific and will be prepared to respond swiftly to emerging threats. Capt. Ryan Jayawardena, director of operations for the 431st, remarked, “It’s an honor to write the next chapter, side by side with our Korean allies. Activating the 431st reflects our shared commitment, hard work, and the strength of an alliance ready for today’s challenges.”

The article was authored by Zita Ballinger Fletcher, who is experienced in military history and previously served as editor for various military publications.