RAF Protector RG Mk1 Surveillance Drone Takes Flight

The first few of the sixteen new Protector RG Mk1 surveillance drones have arrived at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire. These next-generation unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are successors to the MQ-9A Reaper and will provide the RAF with enhanced surveillance and strike capabilities.?

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The Protector RG Mk1 is designed to fly via SATCOM and safely integrate into civil airspace with a maximum endurance of over 40 hours in all types of weather and a service ceiling of 40,000 feet. It can carry laser-guided bombs such as the Paveway IV and Brimstone missiles for low-collateral and high-precision strikes. These UAVs will likely be remotely operated by crews based at RAF Waddington or from a forward operating position.??

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Air Commodore Alex Hicks of the RAF said, "This is an important milestone for the programme, Air Force and wider defence and I am delighted to see Protector at RAF Waddington."?

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The first Protector RG Mk1 has flown a series of circuits around RAF Waddington and continues to complete all initial trials. The next Protector UAVs are to be phased in soon and are expected to be in service by 2025.??

The Protector RG Mk1 is manufactured by General Atomics, a San Diego-based company that specializes in UAV systems for governments and defence forces.?

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Brookfield Aviation International is confident that the new generation of UAVs will significantly enhance the RAF's service in safeguarding the United Kingdom and its allies.?