Unarmed RAF Protector RG1 drones have for the first time joined Royal Navy warships and helicopters in tracking Russian naval activity in the English Channel, as part of efforts to monitor and deter threats around British shores.
Between late September and mid-October, the aircraft spent more than 10 hours surveying foreign vessels, operating alongside Royal Navy helicopters and warships. The Protector RG1 is one of 16 unmanned aircraft acquired by the RAF, of which 11 have been delivered into service.
First operational sorties over UK waters
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Our Armed Forces work together every day, around the clock, to keep our country safe and safeguard our national interests. For the first time, Protector has joined Royal Navy warships and helicopters monitoring activity around our shores, demonstrating how we are constantly innovating to monitor and deter threats and irresponsible provocation.”
Wg Cdr Sam Haley, officer commanding XIII Squadron, said: “Protector’s first operational sorties in UK airspace demonstrate the significant value this capability brings to UK defence. Working alongside Royal Navy vessels, it provided persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance coverage, highlighting its ability to operate seamlessly across military and civilian airspace in support of maritime security, Nato commitments and wider UK tasking.”
Russian activity on the rise
During the first seven months of 2026, Russian activity in and around British waters rose by 25% compared with the same period in 2025. Between October 1 and October 14, HMS Dauntless and HMS Tune monitored a Russian frigate, while RAF helicopters tracked a Russian intelligence-gathering ship operating near Nato units during a training exercise, as well as another Russian landing ship, RFN Aleksandr Shabalin, transiting through the English Channel.
Cdr Neil Skinner, commanding officer of HMS Dauntless, said: “The Royal Navy’s ability to monitor activity around the United Kingdom is an important part of maintaining awareness of the maritime environment. HMS Dauntless monitored the movements of RFN Neustrashimy during her transit through the English Channel, contributing to the wider maritime picture and supporting UK maritime security.”
Wider defence concerns
The deployment comes amid fears that Russia is increasing sabotage operations in Europe and preparing for conflict with Nato allies, alongside growing criticism of Labour’s defence budgets and concerns that funding gaps could leave the UK vulnerable to Moscow’s aggression.
Streeting last week warned that Brits must be ready to win a war within 1,000 days after launching a “Be Ready” campaign, advising people to stockpile non-perishable food in case of emergencies.
