The Royal Air Force has begun training for the Protector RG Mk1 drone, which will replace the MQ-9 Reaper

Royal Air Force personnel have begun training in the use of the new Protector RG Mk1 unmanned aerial vehicle, according to a press release from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI). This is according to a press release from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI).

Here's What We Know

The first group of operators began training on May 1, 2023, at the Flight Test and Training Center (FTTC) in Grand Forks, N.J. The centre is owned by GA-ASI, which is the manufacturer of the drone.

The programme focuses on the basic skills required to fly the Protector RG Mk1 drone and equipment, including a multispectral targeting system, a reconnaissance station and a real-time tasking system. After training, crews will have a good foundation for drone control in normal and emergency situations.

The Protector RG Mk1 is the replacement for the MQ-9 Reaper. It is an upgraded version of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian drone. The modification was carried out to meet the unique requirements of the Royal British Air Force.

The SkyGuardian itself is based on the MQ-9A Reaper. A GA-ASI press release states that the drone has attracted significant interest from customers around the world. In particular, the UK was followed by Belgium with a contract.

The SeaGuardian modification is in service with the Japanese Coast Guard. In addition, the US Air Force became the first American customer of the MQ-9B SkyGeardian, ordering three drones.

Returning to the UK, the UK has ordered the production of 16 MQ-9B drones with upgrades to the Protector RG Mk1. The cost of the contract is almost $2bn.

Source: GA-ASI