OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Lt. Col. Douglas J. Slater, 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron incoming commander, formally assumed command of the 431st ERS at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, as a tenant unit of the 8th Fighter Wing, September 28.
The 8th FW operates as a premiere exercise and rotational force bed down location for the U.S. air component forces in the ROK. The 431st was last activated as the 431st Fighter Squadron in 1943 under the Fifth Air Force and has lineal heritage to the 431st Test and Evaluation Squadron.
"It's an honor to write the next chapter, side by side with our Korean allies," said Capt. Ryan Jayawardena, 431st director of operations. "Activating the 431st reflects our shared commitment, hard work, and the strength of an alliance ready for today's challenges."
The activation of the ERS reinforces the dedication of the U.S. to peace and security on the Korean Peninsula. MQ-9 operations will support U.S.-Korean priorities in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance across the lndo-Pacific theater enhancing the joint capability to respond to threats and emerging situations while strengthening our alliance.
The MQ-9 is a multi-mission, medium-altitude, long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft designed for dynamic execution targets and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. Beyond defense, these platforms can also support cooperative efforts in humanitarian aid, disaster response, and other regional challenges.
"Deploying the MQ-9 brings a powerful capability to the region," said Slater. "We're here to support the mission, deepen cooperation, and demonstrate our shared commitment to maintaining security and stability across the Inda-Pacific."
Contact: Seventh Air Force Public Affairs, 7AFPA@us.af.mil