UK MOD Signs Protector Support Contract with GA-ASI

• The GA-ASI MQ-9B is lauded as the world’s most advanced RPA system
• The MQ-9B encompasses the SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian variants
• This partnership has successfully transformed a conceptual framework i

The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence (MOD) has formalised a significant support and sustainment contract with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) aimed at providing comprehensive logistical and maintenance services for the Protector RG Mk1 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) system. This contract, officially designated as the UK Protector Availability and Support Solution (UK PASS), will be instrumental in delivering ongoing operational support for the innovative Protector RPA systems, which have recently been introduced into service by the Royal Air Force (RAF). The Protector RPA leverages advanced technology derived from GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian, a platform recognised for its versatility and capabilities.

The UK PASS contract falls under the category of Direct Commercial Sales and encompasses a wide range of support services. These services include maintenance for the Protector RPA itself, the Certifiable Ground Control Stations integral to the operation of the aircraft, as well as the Synthetic Training Systems designed to prepare RAF personnel for effective deployment and utilisation of the Protector system.

Chris Dusseault, Vice President of MQ-9B in Europe, emphasised the significance of this contract, stating, “This contract marks an essential milestone in the fielding of the Protector RPA system for the RAF. With the UK PASS contract in place, we can seamlessly transition from the test and development phase to focused training for RAF flight crews, ensuring they are fully equipped for operational readiness.”

UK PASS is part of GA-ASI's broader initiative, the SkyGuardian Global Support Solutions (SGSS), which aims to provide a robust support framework for the entire MQ-9B customer community. This initiative employs a shared Contractor Logistics Support (CLS) model that optimises resource management. By pooling labour, materials, and overhead necessary for maintenance, supply chain management, and other critical support functions, the program aims to achieve significant operational efficiencies and cost reductions for all customers involved.

Group Captain Rich Cameron, Team Leader of Uncrewed Air System 3, remarked on the collaborative nature of this contract, stating, “The awarding of the PASS contract signifies three years of intensive collaboration between GA-ASI and multidisciplinary teams within the UK MOD. This partnership has successfully transformed a conceptual framework into a tangible and first-in-class sustainment solution for the Royal Air Force’s Protector fleet. By effectively utilising contractor-owned inventory from a global spares pool, this contract diverges from traditional spares and repairs agreements, creating economies of scale through a multi-customer common operating model.”

The GA-ASI MQ-9B is lauded as the world’s most advanced RPA system, distinguished by its exceptional operational endurance and expansive range, making it a vital asset in modern military aviation. The MQ-9B encompasses the SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian variants, which have seen remarkable deployment and acceptance not only within the UK’s Royal Air Force (identified as Protector) but also through substantial orders from allied nations including Canada, Poland, the Japan Coast Guard, the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force, Taiwan, and India. Additionally, the U.S. Air Force has integrated MQ-9B units to support its Special Operations Command. The aircraft has also played a crucial role in multiple U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail, further highlighting its versatility and operational effectiveness in various mission scenarios.