US drone sales set to surge with new Trump-era policy

US drone sales could skyrocket as Washington revises decades-old export rule, allowing advanced MQ-9 Reaper drones to allies like Saudi Arabia and Europe. The United States is preparing to revise its decades-old arms export policy to strengthen its position in the global defense market. Since 1987, the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)—an informal agreement among 35 nations—has restricted the sale of long-range drones and missile systems to non-nuclear states. Now, Washington is considering a major policy change that would allow advanced drones and modern weaponry to be sold to key allies, including Saudi Arabia and Eastern European countries.

MQ-9 Reaper: The Drone in High Demand

At the center of this policy shift is the MQ-9 Reaper, one of the most advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the world.

• Surveillance & Intelligence: Equipped for reconnaissance, surveillance, and precision targeting.
• Speed & Endurance: Can fly at nearly 480 km/h with a wingspan of 20 meters and stay airborne for up to 30 hours.
• Combat Power: Armed with Hellfire missiles, Paveway bombs, and laser-guided munitions, it can carry out sustained missions of 23 hours while striking targets up to 1,850 km away with pinpoint accuracy.

These features make the Reaper highly attractive for countries seeking both intelligence capabilities and strike power in one platform.

Saudi Arabia and Global Interest

During President Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia, Riyadh expressed interest in purchasing more than 100 MQ-9 Reaper drones. Analysts estimate that Washington could secure arms deals worth nearly $142 billion with the kingdom alone. Beyond Saudi Arabia, several European and Pacific nations are also keen to acquire American drones as part of their defense modernization programs.

The MTCR Obstacle

Despite the growing demand, the MTCR agreement of 1987 remains a major hurdle. Under the pact, signatory nations—including the U.S.—cannot sell long-range drones or missile technology to non-nuclear states. However, U.S. officials, speaking anonymously to Reuters, revealed that Washington is now actively reviewing this outdated policy. The new framework would allow American defense firms to meet global demand while ensuring the weapons are manufactured domestically.

Rising Competition: Turkey and China

The delay in U.S. drone exports has created an opportunity for rivals. Both Turkey and China have become serious competitors in the global drone market, supplying affordable yet powerful UAVs to countries seeking alternatives to U.S. restrictions. Unless Washington acts quickly, it risks losing long-term market dominance to emerging players.

Strategic Implications

A U.S. policy shift on drone exports would not only open lucrative defense deals but also reshape military alliances. Supplying advanced drones to allies could strengthen Washington’s strategic influence in the Middle East, Europe, and the Pacific. At the same time, it raises concerns about the proliferation of high-tech weaponry and the risks of regional arms races.

US drone sales.