In a historic first, the Protector RG Mk1, the first Remotely Piloted Air System (RPAS) that is authorised to fly in UK Airspace, has gotten in service with the Royal Air Force.This programme milestone was reached following extensive test and examination, led by 56 Squadron with 31 Squadron providing engineering and assistance services.
Protector recently completed a flight from RAF Waddington to RAF Marham through UK Airspace.Further screening will be completed over the summer season prior to the planned shift from the RAFs Reaper platform to Protector later in 2025.
The Protector program will deliver a cutting edge RPAS for the UK, replacing the current Reaper ability, and will be the first remotely piloted airplane of this type capable of flying in the UK in all classes of airspace.I welcome our latest aircraft into service with the Royal Air Force.
I am happy that the RAFs Protector has reached this significant and historic milestone on its journey to performing operations.
Getting to this stage has been an entire force effort, working closely with our industry partners.
I want to thank all those who have actually been associated with the program, and I understand they will continue to work relentlessly towards attaining full operating capability.Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich KnightonA Royal Air Force Protector RG-Mk1 (MQ-9B), identification number PR010, from its home station at RAF Waddington, carried out a prepared landaway exercise at RAF Marham.
This regular training is important for guaranteeing operational versatility and validating the aircrafts ability to securely divert and operate from alternative airfields, must unpredicted scenarios demand a modification of destination.RAF Marham is the home of the F-35B Lightning, a 5th Generation, multi-role, stealth fighter.
The Station is also home to a range of engineering support functions from upkeep to frontline support.Protector introduces an unique and long-endurance capability to UK Defence, specialising in intelligence, monitoring, target acquisition and reconnaissance along with strike operations.
When functional, this sophisticated system can be deployed internationally with very little on-site support, making it highly flexible for various missions.Remotely piloted from RAF Waddington, it can run at heights up to 40,000 feet and has an endurance of over 30 hours.
RAF Waddington is also the home to the UKs Protector Training Facility, housing aspects of the UK NATO Flight Training Europe facility and handled by 54 Squadron.A Royal Air Force Protector RG-Mk1 (MQ-9B), serial number PR010The first Certifiable Ground Control Stations (CGCS) and simulators have actually been provided and set up at RAF Waddington.
The very first Air Vehicle (AV) was provided in Sep 2023.
There are presently 4 AVs in the UK with a further 6 being used for test and evaluation in the USA.
All expected AV shipments will be completed in 2025.
Source: UK Royal Air Force