Top 5 Drone Combat Systems: Bayraktar vs MQ-9 Reaper vs Wing Loong II vs Heron TP vs Mohajer-10

In 2025, Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) are reshaping the nature of warfare. These systems offer militaries the ability to conduct long-endurance missions, precision strikes, and real-time surveillance without endangering pilots. From counterterrorism to conventional warfare, drones are now central to modern combat doctrines.

This article compares five of the most widely deployed and battle-tested drone combat systems: Bayraktar TB2 (Turkey), MQ-9 Reaper (USA), Wing Loong II (China), Heron TP (Israel), and Mohajer-10 (Iran). Each platform reflects the strategic priorities, technological capabilities, and defense objectives of its country of origin.

Top 5 Combat Drones in 2025 – Comparison Table

Drone	Country	Endurance	Range	Payload Capacity	Key Features
MQ-9 Reaper	United States	Up to 27 hours	Over 1,850 km	1,700 kg	High-altitude, satellite link, Hellfire missiles, JDAMs
Bayraktar TB2	Turkey	27 hours	150–300 km	150 kg	Combat-proven, MAM-L bombs, affordable and widely exported
Wing Loong II	China	20 hours	4,000+ km	480 kg	Armed with missiles/bombs, exported to Middle East and Africa
Heron TP	Israel	36+ hours	1,000+ km	1,000 kg	HALE platform, strategic surveillance, satellite comms
Mohajer-10	Iran	24 hours	2,000 km	300 kg	EO/IR sensors, long-range strike, anti-jamming tech

1. MQ-9 Reaper (USA): The Benchmark in Lethal Drone Operations

The MQ-9 Reaper, developed by General Atomics, is the gold standard in armed drone platforms. Originally designed for long-endurance, high-altitude surveillance, the Reaper has evolved into a highly capable multi-role UCAV, extensively used by the United States Air Force and allied nations.

Strike Capability and Payload

The Reaper can carry up to 1,700 kg of ordnance, including Hellfire missiles, GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs, and JDAMs. It combines this with a 360-degree radar, high-definition targeting sensors, and real-time satellite communications.

Operational Endurance

With a flight time of up to 27 hours, the MQ-9 excels in persistent surveillance, strategic target tracking, and precision strikes, often used in anti-terror and insurgency operations.

Global Impact

Its combat record in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, and Africa has made the MQ-9 the most proven and lethal UCAV in the world.

2. Bayraktar TB2 (Turkey): Affordable and Battlefield-Tested

The Bayraktar TB2, produced by Baykar Defense, has become one of the most recognizable and influential drones of the 2020s. Turkey has positioned it as a cost-effective, reliable solution for medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) operations.

Combat Record

The TB2 has seen action in Syria, Libya, Nagorno-Karabakh, and Ukraine, where it played a critical role in targeting tanks, artillery, and air defenses. Its effectiveness in real-world scenarios has elevated its reputation globally.

Sensors and Armament

It is equipped with electro-optical and infrared cameras, laser target designators, and can carry four MAM-L precision-guided munitions. Its range is 150 kilometers with satellite communication capability available in newer variants.

Strategic Appeal

The Bayraktar’s relatively low cost, combined with operational reliability, has led to exports to over two dozen countries, making it a key player in democratizing combat drone access.

3. Wing Loong II (China): Export-Focused Precision Platform

China’s Wing Loong II, developed by Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group, is a MALE drone designed for both reconnaissance and strike missions. It is part of China’s growing push to rival Western systems and capture global defense markets.

Design and Capabilities

Resembling the MQ-9 in form, the Wing Loong II can carry up to 480 kg of munitions, including air-to-surface missiles, laser-guided bombs, and rocket pods. It features satellite link communication, and its range extends beyond 4,000 km.

International Use

Countries such as UAE, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, and Egypt have deployed Wing Loong II drones. It has been used in Yemen and Libya, showcasing its strike capabilities in asymmetric warfare.

Competitive Edge

Wing Loong II is marketed as a cheaper alternative to Western drones, with broad compatibility with Chinese-made smart munitions.

4. Heron TP (Israel): Strategic Surveillance and Deep-Strike Readiness

Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the Heron TP is a high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) UCAV designed for strategic intelligence gathering and deep-penetration strike capability.

Mission Profile

With a wingspan of 26 meters and flight endurance exceeding 36 hours, the Heron TP is suited for multi-theater surveillance, electronic warfare, and precision attack roles. It is capable of carrying air-to-ground missiles and electronic pods.

Advanced Avionics

Heron TP drones are equipped with synthetic aperture radar (SAR), EO/IR payloads, and ELINT systems. Their modular architecture allows integration with a variety of weapon platforms and sensors.

Operational Reach

Used by Israel and Germany, and considered for India’s UCAV programs, the Heron TP stands out for its strategic mission scope and satellite connectivity.

5. Mohajer-10 (Iran): A Bold Leap in Indigenous Drone Development

Iran’s Mohajer-10, unveiled in 2023, represents a major leap in the country’s indigenous UCAV capabilities. Designed by the IRGC, it reflects Tehran’s growing focus on drone warfare amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Technical Specs

The Mohajer-10 can carry up to 300 kg of payload, including precision-guided bombs and surveillance pods. It has a flight range of 2,000 km and can stay airborne for over 24 hours.

Integrated Systems

The drone features advanced EO/IR sensors, real-time video transmission, and is believed to have anti-jamming and stealth coatings for better survivability.

Regional Role

Used for both combat and ISR missions, Mohajer drones have already appeared in Middle Eastern conflicts, including proxy operations. The Mohajer-10 showcases Iran’s push to compete in the global drone arms race despite sanctions.