The United Kingdom Ministry of Defence highlighted the progress of the Royal Air Force (RAF) in autonomous systems, in response to a question raised in Parliament.
Defence Secretary Maria Eagle stated that the 2025 Defence Strategic Review reinforced the need for the RAF to remain at the forefront of air combat evolution, particularly in the transition from fully manned aircraft to a future system combining manned, unmanned, and autonomous platforms.
According to Eagle, two new systems have already entered service this year: the Protector drone and the Stormshroud, the RAF’s first ACP. The latter was cited as an example of integration between the air force, the government’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, and the British industry, representing an important step in modernising autonomous capabilities.
The Secretary also emphasized that autonomy will be central across different fronts of military aviation, ensuring greater efficiency in various operations. She explained that the speed of this transition will depend on the Defence Investment Plan, expected to be published by the end of the year, which will guide the next strategic decisions.
Source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: X @RoyalAirForce | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
The RAF’s latest Remotely Piloted Air System (RPAS), the Protector RG Mk1, has started deployed assurance testing and operator training in preparation for its replacement of Reaper’s operational role within Op Shader. pic.twitter.com/tPQvf8KWj3
— Royal Air Force (@RoyalAirForce) September 3, 2025
