MQ-9 Reaper | What It’s Really Like to Command USA's DEADLIEST Drones | Trevor Merrell | TALK4 153

Описание: In episode 153 of the Talk4 Podcast, Louis Skupien welcomes U.S. Air Force Colonel Trevor “Phantom” Merrell — a former F-16 pilot, ISR strategist, and now Commander of the 25th Attack Group, leading 24/7 global MQ-9 Reaper combat operations across the world.

From ejecting out of an F-16 in Germany to flying missions over the Taiwan Strait, Phantom’s journey is one of raw leadership, elite aviation, and redefining the future of unmanned warfare.

🔗 PHANTOM’S LINKEDIN:   / trevor-merrell-a807366a  

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🚀 What did we explore in this episode?

In this unforgettable conversation, Phantom shares his path from flying the Viper to commanding a fleet of unmanned MQ-9 Reapers—one of the most critical weapons systems in today’s Air Force arsenal. He dives into the story of his ejection over Europe, the moment he was forced into drone warfare against his will, and how he went on to lead ISR strategy from the Pentagon.

We explore high-stakes missions, including one where Phantom was flying ISR near Taiwan while being intercepted by Chinese jets—only to walk straight into a Pentagon meeting minutes later.

This episode is a tactical masterclass on leadership, risk, and redefining identity in a modern Air Force where manned and unmanned worlds collide.

🎧 One of the most mind-blowing interviews on the show to date.

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👉🏻 Who Is Col. Trevor “Phantom” Merrell?
Phantom is a U.S. Air Force Colonel with 2,900+ flight hours in the F-16 and MQ-9, extensive combat experience, and strategic leadership roles at the Pentagon. As Commander of the 25th Attack Group, he oversees MQ-9 Reaper operations in support of global combatant commands. His insights are shaping the next era of warfare, leadership, and remotely piloted aviation.

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🔥 This episode covers topics such as:
• Surviving an F-16 ejection over Europe
• Flying MQ-9 missions near Taiwan amid rising tensions
• Leadership at the edge of war and diplomacy
• The evolution of ISR and unmanned warfare
• What it’s like to command 24/7 global drone ops
• Mentorship, risk management, and decision-making at scale

🎧 Don’t miss this inside look into the U.S. Air Force’s most strategic operations — from a man who commands them.

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