The British Royal Air Force (RAF) has successfully conducted flight tests of its MQ-9B Protector drone, marking a significant step in its ongoing modernization efforts. The test took place at the RAF’s Waddington base in Lincolnshire, located on the east coast of the UK. This base is set to host future tests and exercises, particularly as part of an international training initiative under NATO.
As part of the Protector program, the UK plans to replace its current fleet of Reaper MQ-9A drones with a total of 16 MQ-9B Protectors. The RAF initially tested the new drone in 2023, when it was operated from Waddington, where the flight was controlled from a ground-based cockpit.
The MQ-9B Protector is an advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by General Atomics. Designed for extended flight durations, it can remain airborne for over 30 hours. This versatility allows it to execute a wide range of missions, including close air support, reconnaissance, and disaster response. When fully operational, the Protector is expected to play a pivotal role in the UK’s defense ecosystem, enhancing capabilities in intelligence gathering, surveillance, target acquisition, and strike missions.
In terms of specifications, the Protector measures 37.5 feet (11.43 meters) in length and boasts a wingspan of 79 feet (24 meters). Its maximum takeoff weight is approximately 12,500 pounds (5,669 kilograms), making it a formidable platform for various military operations. Additionally, the drone is equipped with automatic takeoff and landing systems and a sophisticated sensor suite, which includes high-definition electro-optical and infrared cameras, ensuring high-quality observation capabilities.
Furthermore, the drone is designed to integrate with advanced weaponry, including 500-pound (226 kilograms) Paveway IV laser-guided bombs and Brimstone 3 missiles, enhancing its operational effectiveness and versatility in combat scenarios. The successful testing of the MQ-9B Protector underscores the RAF’s commitment to modernizing its air capabilities to meet evolving defense needs in a complex global landscape.
