UK Predator Variant Obtains Lightweight, Domestically Produced Empennage for Upcoming Protector RPA

The first new advanced composite V-tail assembly for the MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft has been shipped for installation on the newest iteration of the aircraft. 

The SkyGuardian, the frontline drone of the UK's Royal Air Force,  will see the new tail as part of an upgrade that will be placed into service as the Protector RPA. GKN Aerospace designed and manufactured the tail section in their facility at Cowes, England, before shipping it to Poway, California to be fitted on the drone. The v-tail collaboration was announced earlier this year, another project in a long line of programs between the two companies for more than a decade. GKN's support for the Predator program, and it's variety of derivations, have resulted in an array of fuel bladders, tail sections, and improved lightweight landing gear systems. 

“Our companies have worked together for many years, and we’re thrilled to have GKN Aerospace as a strategic supplier for MQ-9B,” said GA-ASI vice president of international strategic development Robert Schoeffling. “V-tails from GKN Aerospace are not only for the RAF’s Protector, but the global MQ-9B fleet will use these tails manufactured in the UK as well.”

GKN Aerospace’s vice president of defense for the European region, Rupert Dix, said the change is part of the continued evolution of the platform. “Our partnership with GA-ASI on the MQ-9B program is an important development for our Defence business and paves the way for continued growth of advanced aerospace manufacturing in the UK. Our team at the Cowes facility has worked very hard to get the V-tail line into full production while working to ensure on-time delivery of our quality products. We look forward to affirming our commitment throughout the lifecycle of this vital platform.”

FMI: www.ga.com