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.
“In addition to accepting the operational roles currently undertaken by Reaper, which has provided exceptional service on operations around the clock for over 15 years, Protector will be certified to stringent NATO safety and certification standards, allowing it to operate in the U.K. and European civilian airspace,” the RAF said in a statement.
Trials will include ground testing of satellite links and taxi procedures, as well as takeoff and landing procedures, RAF said.
Earlier this month, the RAF took delivery of the first of 16 ordered Protectors and said receiving the remaining combat drones will come in phases. It is expected to be in service in 2024.
“The [intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance] capability team will be working with 56 Squadron, our test and evaluation experts, [which] will put the aircraft through its paces to ensure it is ready for operational service next year, whilst the newly reformed 31 Squadron will focus on preparing to operate the aircraft in service,” said Air Commodore Alex Hicks, who is the senior officer responsible for the Protector program. “This is an important milestone for the program, Air Force, and wider defense, and I am delighted to see Protector at RAF Waddington.”
The Protector boasts a wingspan of nearly 80 feet, a maximum takeoff weight of 12,500 pounds, and is capable of carrying 500 pounds of Paveway IV laser-guided bombs and Brimstone 3 missiles.
