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

Verified

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.
The Protector, based on the GA-ASI MQ-9B UAV, will undergo ground and flight testing before entering service in 2024.
This long-endurance UAV will replace the Reaper drone, meeting NATO safety standards for operation in UK and European airspace.
The Protector has a large wingspan, high maximum takeoff weight, and can carry a significant payload of munitions.

See a mistake? Contact us.

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.