Defence

Protector resumes UK flight testing

Posted 14 February 2025

Protector has resumed flight testing with the Royal Air Force (RAF) as four of the new uncrewed surveillance aircraft have now been delivered to the UK.

Courtesy DE&S

Procured by Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), Protector RG Mk1 is a remotely piloted system which will replace Reaper and offer advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) capabilities.

Able to operate at an altitude of up to 40,000ft and with more than 30 hours of endurance, it will be fitted with precision strike weapons such as Brimstone and the Paveway IV laser guided bomb.

The latest test flight took off from RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire under the watchful eye of the RAF’S 56 (Test & Evaluation) Squadron and was supported by 31 & 54 Squadrons.

Part of phase three of the test and evaluation programme, it was the second UK flight for Protector and marks the start of key integration and operational testing for the aircraft.

Above: A Protector remotely piloted aircraft on the runway at RAF Waddington.
Courtesy DE&S

A total of 16 Protectors are expected to be delivered by mission partners General Atomics. The first Certifiable Ground Control Station (CGCS) and simulator have also been delivered and installed at RAF Waddington.

Richard Cameron, DE&S Uncrewed Air System Delivery Team Leader, said: “The latest successful flight of Protector in UK air space is an important next step as we continue to work with our industry partners to deliver this advanced new capability for the RAF.

“A quarter of the fleet is now on UK soil, while a further three Protectors are being used for valuable test, evaluation and training in the USA.”

The Protector fleet will initially be based at RAF Waddington but could be deployed anywhere in the world while being remotely piloted from the airbase, which will also serve as a training centre for UK students.

This centre will put the RAF’s ISTAR force at the forefront of Uncrewed Air Systems for the UK and its allies.

Wing Commander Podmore, Officer Commanding 56 Sqn, said: “This flight was a significant milestone and a culmination of a huge effort across the entire Protector enterprise.

“The flight test team, led by 56 Sqn and supported by 31 and 54 Sqns, should be tremendously proud noting this event marks the start of key integration and operational testing for the platform.”

Beyond its military operational roles, Protector will also be capable of operating within UK civilian airspace to support counter-terrorism operations and provide support to Military Aid to Civilian Authorities tasks, such as assisting HM Coastguard with search and rescue missions.