Protector RG Mk1 (UK)

The Protector RG Mk1 program develops and fields a next-generation remotely piloted air system (RPAS) for the Royal Air Force, replacing the Reaper MQ-9A fleet to deliver enhanced intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance (ISTAR), and precision strike capabilities in all airspace classes, including non-segregated civil airspace, with over 30 hours endurance at 40,000 feet. It has entered service as the RAF's first RPAS authorized for UK airspace, with four air vehicles delivered to the UK by early 2025 and all deliveries expected by late 2025, though it lacks Initial Operating Capability (IOC) despite operational deployments providing intelligence support; Reaper transition is planned for 2025. Strategically, it enhances UK defense-intelligence persistence, global deployability, and multi-role flexibility for military operations and civilian support like search and rescue, marking a transformational step in RAF air operations.