MQ-9A Tail Number 13-4226 Forced Landing in AFRICOM Area of Responsibility

Incident Overview and Operational Context On 29 November 2023 at 20:09 Zulu Time, an unmanned MQ-9A aircraft, identified by tail number 13-4226, experienced a propulsion system anomaly shortly after takeoff. The aircraft was operated remotely by a Launch and Recovery Element (LRE) consisting of a mishap pilot and a mishap sensor operator, both deployed with the 12th Expeditionary Special Operation Squadron (ESOS) under Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). The incident occurred within the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) Area of Responsibility (AOR). ## Sequence of Events and Impact Fourteen seconds after takeoff, an internal mechanical failure within the Fuel Control Unit (FCU) caused a sudden decrease in fuel flow to the engine, resulting in an immediate loss of engine torque. This substantial loss of torque led to a loss of altitude and stabilization for the aircraft. Forty-four seconds after takeoff, and approximately 30 seconds after the initial loss of torque indication, the aircraft impacted the ground several miles east of the runway. Due to the time of day, location, and loss of maneuverability, the mishap pilot assessed that no suitable recovery element or alternate airfield was within range for a safe recovery, necessitating a forced landing. The impact resulted in a complete loss of the aircraft. ## Investigation Findings and Probable Cause The Abbreviated Accident Investigation Board (AAIB) President found, by a preponderance of the evidence, that the cause of the mishap was an undetermined mechanical failure within the FCU that caused a sudden decrease in fuel flow to the engine, leading to a loss of torque. Through re-creation testing, the manufacturer narrowed the possible origins of the mechanical failure within the FCU to two possibilities: a pressure failure in the P3 line or a torque motor failure. Despite extensive review of maintenance records, the exact cause could not be established by a preponderance of the evidence due to the unavailability of wreckage for further analysis. ## Consequences and Property Loss There was no reported damage to civilian property, no injuries, and no fatalities. The loss of government property was valued at $21,500,000. The aircraft's parts were not available for further evaluation due to the loss of the aircraft at the forced landing site.