Protector drone still short of IOC despite deployment

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the MQ-9B Protector has not yet reached Initial Operating Capability, despite the original estimate that this would take place in 2025.

In a written parliamentary answer published on 30 January, Defence Minister Luke Pollard said “Protector RG Mk1 has yet to reach Initial Operating Capability programme milestones.” He added that the system “has already deployed on operations and is providing valuable Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance support.”

The response marks a change from earlier ministerial expectations. In March 2025, the Ministry of Defence told MPs that the Protector programme “expects to declare Initial Operating Capability this year,” while noting that a date for Full Operating Capability had not yet been established. The latest answer confirms that those IOC milestones were not met during 2025, even as operational activity has begun.

Protector RG Mk1 is replacing the MQ-9A Reaper in the Armed Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance role. The aircraft is based on the General Atomics MQ-9B SkyGuardian platform and is designed to be the UK’s first certified remotely piloted air system capable of routine operation in controlled airspace.

The platform is designed for medium-altitude, long-endurance operations, with an endurance of more than 40 hours and a maximum operating altitude of up to 50,000 feet. It is powered by a Honeywell TPE 331-10T turboprop engine and operated by a crew consisting of a pilot, sensor operator and mission intelligence coordinator. Protector is equipped with a multi-spectral targeting system and sensors including synthetic aperture radar and ground moving target indication, enabling full-motion video, infrared imagery and persistent wide-area surveillance.

Based at RAF Waddington, the system is intended to be operated primarily from the UK, with provision for deployments to additional global locations. Beyond combat operations, the aircraft has been positioned for a wider range of tasks including maritime surveillance, search and rescue support, and Military Aid to the Civil Authorities.