The Operational Conversion Course (OCU) 1 crews, comprising a Pilot, Sensor Operator, and Mission Intelligence Coordinator (MIC), have been testing various simulated scenarios, under the tuition of GA-ASI Instructors. The GA Instructors were previously evaluated by personnel from the RAF’s Central Flying School-Examination Wing as part of the Military Aviation Authority governed Contractor Flying Approved Organisation Scheme.
Simulated missions include Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance activity to find, fix and follow designated targets on the ground, with the pilot maintaining an optimum position in the air, while the Sensor Operator and MIC work together to maintain target tracking.
The course familiarises future instructors with the RAF-specific training material and mission scenarios which will form the basis of RAF delivered training to all Protector crews. Future OCU training will evaluate the skills required to operate Protector and its equipment, including real-time exploitation of intelligence involving the Multi-Spectral Targeting System and Synthetic Aperture Radar.
Equipped with a suite of advanced equipment and precision strike weapons, Protector will provide critical armed surveillance capability and will be able to deploy against potential adversaries around the globe. The aircraft will also be able to fly in busy unsegregated airspace thanks to ‘detect and avoid’ technology with a potential endurance of over 40 hours. The Programme includes expansion of 54 Squadron capability, with new infrastructure at RAF Waddington including a training centre for UK and international students. The centre will put the RAFs ISTAR Force at the very forefront of Remotely Piloted Air Systems for the UK and partner nations.
The UK is investing in 16 Protector RG Mk1 for the RAF; the first eight will enable an Initial Operating Capability scheduled for 2025 at RAF Waddington. Capable of operating anywhere in the world, the Lincolnshire base will be the home of the Force, the site of launch and recovery to support domestic training, and command and control for overseas operations.
