Protector RG Mk1 enters service as Royal Air Force’s first remotely piloted aircraft

Protector recently completed a flight from RAF Waddington to RAF Marham, marking a key step in its operational development. Further testing is scheduled throughout the summer ahead of the planned transition from the RAF’s Reaper platform to Protector in 2025.

The Protector programme introduces a new generation RPAS for the UK, designed to operate in all classes of airspace. It will replace the Reaper system and provide enhanced capability across intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance, and strike roles.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton, Chief of the Air Staff, said: “I welcome our newest aircraft into service with the Royal Air Force. I am delighted that the RAF’s Protector has reached this significant and historic milestone on its journey to conducting operations.”

“Getting to this stage has been a whole force effort, working closely with our industry partners. I would like to thank all those who have been involved in the programme, and I know they will continue to work tirelessly towards achieving full operating capability,” he added.

Remotely piloted from RAF Waddington, the system can fly at altitudes up to 40,000 feet and has a mission endurance of over 30 hours. Its operational flexibility allows for global deployment with minimal on-site support.

RAF Waddington also hosts the UK’s Protector Training Facility, managed by 54 Squadron and incorporating elements of the UK NATO Flight Training Europe programme. The base has received the first Certifiable Ground Control Stations and simulators to support the system’s introduction.

The first Air Vehicle (AV) was delivered in September 2023, with four AVs currently in the UK and six more in testing and evaluation in the United States. All AV deliveries are expected to be completed by 2025.