MQ-4C Triton disappears over the Strait of Hormuz

MQ-4C disappeared over the Strait of Hormuz after completing a surveillance mission across the Persian Gulf. A US surveillance drone vanished near the Strait of Hormuz after flying for nearly three hours over the Persian Gulf. Reports said the aircraft had likely finished its mission and was returning to its base at Naval Air Station Sigonella when the incident happened.

According to flight tracking data, the drone slightly changed direction toward Iran before sending the emergency code 7700. Soon after that, the aircraft started losing altitude quickly and then disappeared from radar. However, officials have not confirmed whether the drone crashed into the sea or whether someone shot it down.

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The disappearance came only two days after the United States and Iran agreed to a ceasefire. Iran had also agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for shipping traffic, making the incident even more significant.

MQ-4C drone is one of America’s most advanced aircraft

The MQ-4C Triton is one of the most expensive and advanced surveillance drones used by the US military. The aircraft costs more than $200 million and supports long-range maritime missions across strategic areas.

Unlike regular aircraft, the MQ-4C can stay in the air for more than 24 hours. It can also fly above 50,000 feet and cover nearly 7,400 nautical miles in a single mission. Because of these features, the drone plays a major role in monitoring important waterways and military zones.

In addition, the drone often works with the P-8A Poseidon during surveillance operations. As of 2025, the US Navy reportedly operated around 20 Triton drones and planned to buy seven more.

War costs continue to rise for the US

Meanwhile, the conflict in the region continues to cost the United States heavily. Reports said the US spends nearly $10,300 every second on military operations linked to Iran.

Missiles and ammunition take up the largest share of that spending, reaching nearly $320 million every day. At the same time, air operations cost around $245 million daily, while naval deployments consume about $155 million.

Furthermore, missile defence systems such as THAAD, Patriot, and Aegis BMD add another $95 million per day. Intelligence, cyber operations, logistics, and troop support also continue to increase the overall cost.

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