Royal Air Force Prepares Protector RG Mk1 UAV for Testing

The RAF will evaluate ground testing of satellite links and taxi procedures, as well as takeoff and landing procedures.

Monday, October 23, 2023 at 04:51 PM ET

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Protector RG Mk1 remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) has arrived at Royal Air Force Station Waddington. [Courtesy: RAF]

Key Takeaways:

The Royal Air Force has received its first Protector RG Mk1 remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) at RAF Waddington, where it will undergo ground and air testing.
Based on the MQ-9B variant, the long-endurance Protector will replace the Reaper, expanding operational roles and is certified to stringent NATO standards for operation in civilian airspace.
This is the first of 16 Protector combat drones ordered by the RAF, with the system expected to enter operational service in 2024.

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The first Protector RG Mk1 remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) has arrived at Royal Air Force Station Waddington and is being prepared for ground and air testing, the service announced.

The long-endurance uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV), manufactured by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. and based on GA-ASI’s MQ-9B UAV variant, can be flown anywhere in the world while operated from RAF Waddington in England.