Protector RG Mk 1 pre-production prototype operating from RAF Waddington ahead of Protector entering service in 2024.
Note wider nose for expanded Lynx II AESA and civ airspace navigation sensors. Also, centreline sensor pod usually seen containing a Seaspray 7500E V2 AESA.
Key features are:
Operates higher up and further back than most drones used in Ukraine. Monitors from afar.
Can self-deploy and needs minimal ground crew, secure SATCOM enables control from UK.
Able to operate within civilian airspace following all civ ATC rules.
Long endurance, comms relay, onboard processing and heavy payload allow it to supplement P-8A maritime patrol.
Can still perform all MQ-9B Reaper roles, such as strikes with Brimstone 3 and Paveway IV.
Partnering with US to expand utility.
£15M each on last contract.
