Protector: RAF's new drone begins trials in the UK
A new uncrewed aircraft, capable of carrying out global surveillance and strike operations, is set to begin trials in the UK this week.
The Protector drone comes with a suite of surveillance equipment and will allow the RAF to carry out global surveillance – all while the aircraft is remotely piloted from RAF Waddington.
The first of 16 has now arrived at the Lincolnshire base ahead of a series of rigorous trials and tests before they can enter the fleet.
Starting this week, the first set of tests will begin this week and involve ground testing of satellite links and taxi procedures, as well as taking off and landing.
Defence Procurement Minister James Cartlidge said the trials will "demonstrate how we are spearheading military defence technology".
"The UK's world-class Protector aircraft will emphasise our ultra-modern surveillance, intelligence, and precision strike capabilities," he said, "ensuring we are ready to monitor and protect against potential adversaries around the globe."
The drone will be used to take on a number of tasks, including land and maritime surveillance in order to track threats, counter-terrorism and support UK civil authorities.
With a wingspan of 79ft, the uncrewed aircraft is capable of operating at heights of 40,000ft and can fly for more than 30 hours.
It has been assembled by a newly reformed 31 squadron which is preparing for the final stages of testing before it is expected to enter service later next year
With a history of operating multiple aircraft, 31 Squadron will be exclusively a Protector squadron and have been reformed as the aircraft enters service.
As well as taking on the Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) roles currently carried out by Reaper, Protector will adhere to strict Nato standards – allowing it to operate in the UK and European civilian airspace.
Air Commodore Alex Hicks, Senior Responsible Owner, Protector Programme, said the arrival of Protector to the RAF is "the culmination of years of work by many personnel across the whole of the MOD".
"The ISR Capability Team will be working with 56 Sqn, our test and evaluation experts, will put the aircraft through its paces to ensure it is ready for operational service next year, whilst the newly reformed 31 Sqn will focus on preparing to operate the aircraft in service.
"This is an important milestone for the programme, Air Force and wider defence, and I am delighted to see Protector at RAF Waddington."
A further 15 aircraft from the US will arrive in the UK as part of a phased delivery over the coming years with all the Protectors expected to be in service by 2025.
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