RAF’s Game-Changer Drone, Protector, Set to Soar by Mid-2024
The RAF is about to rocket into a new era with the arrival of Protector — the world’s first certified Remotely Piloted Air System (RPAS) — expected to enter service by mid-2024. This high-tech drone promises a major leap in Britain’s defence capabilities.
Flying Safely Among Civilians
Protector stands out with its revolutionary ‘detect and avoid’ technology, allowing it to safely fly in crowded, unsegregated skies, including civilian airspace. This cutting-edge tech means Protector can operate alongside commercial planes without risk, opening up fresh possibilities for military and civilian missions.
RAF’s New Eye in the Sky
- Protector replaces the ageing Reaper drone, doubling the RAF’s unmanned fleet’s power with up to 16 aircraft.
- It can stay aloft for up to 40 hours, delivering extended intelligence, surveillance, targeting, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions.
- Equipped with advanced anti-icing and lightning protection, it can tackle the harshest weather.
- Armed with UK-made Brimstone missiles and Paveway IV laser-guided bombs, it brings precision strike capabilities with minimal collateral damage.
Official Praise and Big Ambitions
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace hailed Protector as a “world leader in defence technology.” He said:
“Protector will give the RAF vast global reach, meeting the UK’s defence and security needs for decades. It upgrades lethal capabilities, letting us control and protect the battlespace for hours.”
Sir Simon Bollom, CEO of Defence Equipment and Support, added:
“Securing the Protector production contract is a huge win. Our team overcame massive challenges to keep the project on track. This fleet will bring a real step-change in RAF capability.”
More than Just Military Muscle
Meeting strict NATO and UK safety standards, Protector isn’t just a war machine. It could assist civilian agencies in search and rescue or disaster response missions in UK airspace, proving its value beyond the battlefield.
With aircraft and ground control stations being built by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Britain is gearing up to dominate the skies like never before. Protector’s arrival marks a bold new chapter for the RAF and UK defence.
