RAF will procure 16 MQ-9B aircraft. Credit: © 2022 Royal Air Force. UK Crown Copyright.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) has installed the first V-tail onto an MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) destined for the UK Royal Air Force (RAF).

The advanced composite V-tails are manufactured by GKN Aerospace as part of a strategic partnership with GA-ASI.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

GKN Aerospace shipped the first V-tail from its facility in Cowes, UK, to GA-ASI in Poway, California, US.

Notably, RAF is procuring 16 MQ-9B aircraft for Intelligence, Surveillance, Targeting and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. Once they enter service, the RPAs will be known as Protectors.

GA-ASI International Strategic Development vice-president Robert Schoeffling said: “Our companies have worked together for many years, and we’re thrilled to have GKN Aerospace as a strategic supplier for MQ-9B.

“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.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

UK Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) Remotely Piloted Air Systems Delivery Team Leader Michelle Sanders said: “This milestone demonstrates the continued progress being made on this important programme which will provide the RAF with a cutting-edge capability.

“As well as equipping the UK Armed Forces for operations now and into the future, this key programme promotes prosperity in the UK and supports highly-skilled jobs.”

Earlier this month, the US State Department approved a $700m possible foreign military sale (FMS) of Ballistic Missile Defense Radar (BMDR) and other associated equipment to the UK.