UK Protector UAV Programme Moving Ahead

A CONTRACT valued at £100m has been agreed with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI) for development of the UK’s new Protector unmanned air vehicle. The agreement, announced by UK Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon on December 4, will see GA-ASI develop its current UAV technology into the new Protector. Fallon also confirmed plans to arm Protector with UK-made Brimstone 2 missiles and Paveway IV laser-guided bombs. The type is expected to enter service with the Royal Air Force in