The UK received the first Protector RG Mk1 drone

The Royal Air Force has received its first Protector RG Mk1 unmanned aerial vehicle.

Here's What We Know

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems has completed acceptance testing, allowing the drone to be officially handed over to the British Air Force. The Protector RG Mk1 is an upgraded version of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian, designed to meet the unique requirements of the Royal Air Force. However, the MQ-9B SkyGuardian itself is a modification of the MQ-9A Reaper.

The official handover procedure for the drone was attended by Air Vice Marshal Simon Ellard, Director of Procurement at the UK Ministry of Defence. The drone will be used to train personnel of the Royal Air Force. Deliveries will begin in 2023. The first drone will go to Waddington Air Force Base

Source: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems

Image: RAF, @GarethJennings3