#1671 Protector RG1 print
Description
Squadron Prints Lithorgaph No. 1671 - N490EK, Protector RG Mk 1, Protector RG Mk 1 Combined Test Team.
The Scavenger programme began in 2013 and set the requirements for a replacement of the UK’s Reaper fleet in the early 2020s. In 2016 it was announced that the General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Incorporated (GA-ASI) MQ-9B Certifiable Predator-B (Skyguardian) aircraft had been selected by the MOD as the best option. Named the Protector RG Mk 1 for the UK, the system requirements include stringent NATO, Military Aviation Authority and Federal Aviation Authority certification and safety standards. Compliance with these standards ensures the Protector is as safe as a crewed aircraft and can safely navigate alongside other air traffic in non-segregated airspace. In a world first, a prototype version of the UK production model flew across the Atlantic in July 2018, covering a total of 3,760 nautical miles in 24 hours, and landed at the Royal International Air Tattoo. During this event, it was announced that the first Royal Air Force Protector Squadron was to be 31 Squadron, with an expected initial operating capability in 2024. Once in service, it is expected that Protector will fulfil a wide range of roles both in the UK and overseas, including traditional armed ISR; search and rescue support; environmental surveillance; and maritime security in support of the Poseidon MRA Mk 1. The Protector RG Mk 1 is a variant of the GA-ASI MQ-9B Skyguardian with several UK-specific modifications to avionics, weapon systems, sensors, and payloads. It is powered by a Honeywell TPE331-10 turboprop engine, and the airframe incorporates de-icing/anti-icing systems, lightning resistance, and fire protection features. The highly efficient wings and large fuel capacity means it can fly for up to 48 hours in clean-wing configuration at an altitude around 40,00 feet. Nine hardpoints allow a flexible combination of payload capabilities, including Paveway IV laser-guided / GPS bombs, Brimstone-3 multi-mode missiles, and mission-specific sensor pods. Operational sensors include a high-definition Electro-Optical/InfraRed camera and laser designation system, and a ground scanning multi-mode radar for wide area all-weather imagery and ground target movement indication. The Protector air vehicle is controlled via satellite communication from Certifiable Ground Control Stations (CGCS), which receive a vast array of intelligence streams at all classification levels, providing aircrew with unmatched real-time situational awareness of the operating space. N490EK is a designated Test and Evaluation aircraft with special equipment fit, destined for the UK military register upon completion of the rigorous test phase. It is operated by the joint RAF / GA-ASI / USAF Combined Test Team based in California, USA. This Whole Force team consists of Air and Space Warfare Centre and ISTAR Force aircrew and engineers, and Defence Equipment & Support military and civilian engineers.