General Atomics Systems Will Build New Drone Based On Existing Technology

U.K. Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon has agreed to a £100 million (approx. $126 million) contract with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. to develop a new cutting-edge "Protector" Remotely Piloted Air System especially for the RAF.

"Britain faces ever-evolving threats and we must look at innovative solutions to stay ahead of our enemies," said Defence Secretary, Sir Michael Fallon.  "Doubling our unmanned air fleet will substantially enhance both the intelligence gathering and firepower of the RAF.

"The UK’s security partnership with the US is the deepest and most advanced of any two nations on earth; this program is part of a further strengthening which will help keep Britain safe and secure."

Protector will be equipped with the very latest technology, including advanced imaging and enhanced datalink technology. There are also plans for Protector to be armed with UK-made Brimstone 2 missiles and Paveway IV laser-guided bombs.

Speaking at the annual Reagan National Defence Forum in California, the Defence Secretary underlined the enduring strength of Britain’s relationship with the US in defence, security, and innovation. The close collaboration between the two countries on innovative future defence technologies was emphasised recently in a joint agreement to explore the impact that robotic and autonomous systems might have on resupplying the military, with the first demonstration due next October.

"Protector is a highly advanced system which will use world-beating technology to give us a decisive advantage on the battlefield," said Chief Executive Officer of the MOD’s Defence Equipment & Support organization, Tony Douglas.  "This contract signature is not only great news for our armed forces, but demonstrates how the strong relationship between UK Defence and our allies helps to ensure best value for the taxpayer."

Building on our current Unmanned Aerial Vehicle capability, the next-generation Protector will offer improved range and endurance, greater weapons capacity, automated take-off and landing and better resilience against the elements.

(Infographic provided with U.K. government news release)

FMI: www.gov.uk