- Reaction score
- 12,586
- Points
- 1,160
I added the RN and the British Army transformation to the relevant Canadian boards so I thought I might as well go for the trifecta
The Royal Air Force (RAF) is undergoing a rapid transformation of its drone strategy, moving towards Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACPs) designed to fly alongside manned aircraft,, enhance, and protect them. The strategy, heavily influenced by lessons from the war in Ukraine, aims to shift from relying solely on expensive, specialized drones to deploying lower-cost, "attritable" (expendable or risk-tolerant) autonomous systems to achieve "mass" and overcome enemy defenses.
Key Aspects of the RAF Drone Strategy
The RAF intends for these autonomous systems to be fully integrated into frontline service by 2030, transforming the force into a "hybrid air wing" that can operate in highly contested environments.
Rapid Implementation Evidence
The StormShroud system was developed and delivered in under six months, demonstrating the "rapid" aspect of the transformation strategy.
Future Outlook
The strategy is supported by the 2025 Strategic Defence Review, which emphasizes a shift towards "war-time pace" procurement and the integration of AI-driven, autonomous capabilities.
The Royal Air Force (RAF) is undergoing a rapid transformation of its drone strategy, moving towards Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACPs) designed to fly alongside manned aircraft,, enhance, and protect them. The strategy, heavily influenced by lessons from the war in Ukraine, aims to shift from relying solely on expensive, specialized drones to deploying lower-cost, "attritable" (expendable or risk-tolerant) autonomous systems to achieve "mass" and overcome enemy defenses.
Key Aspects of the RAF Drone Strategy
- Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACPs): The core of the strategy is the introduction of ACPs—uncrewed systems that operate with increasinq g autonomy, both independently and in coordination with manned, piloted aircraft like the Typhoon and F-35B Lightning.
- Rapid Acquisition and Development: The strategy emphasizes "fighting faster" than adversaries by accelerating the procurement and development process, reducing long, bureaucratic timelines.
- Three-Tier Structure: The strategy classifies drones by their survivability and intended use:
- Tier 1: Disposable systems intended for single or very limited use.
- Tier 2: "Attritable" systems designed to be lost in high-risk environments.
- Tier 3: Highly survivable systems with high strategic value.
- Initial Focus (StormShroud): As of May 2025, the first major system, StormShroud, has entered service with 216 Squadron. This system uses a Tekever AR3 drone platform carrying a Leonardo BriteStorm electronic warfare payload to jam enemy radar and protect friendly aircraft.
- Collaboration: The strategy is developed in close cooperation with the Royal Navy, British Army, and UK industry to create cost-effective, sovereign solutions.
The RAF intends for these autonomous systems to be fully integrated into frontline service by 2030, transforming the force into a "hybrid air wing" that can operate in highly contested environments.
Rapid Implementation Evidence
The StormShroud system was developed and delivered in under six months, demonstrating the "rapid" aspect of the transformation strategy.
Future Outlook
The strategy is supported by the 2025 Strategic Defence Review, which emphasizes a shift towards "war-time pace" procurement and the integration of AI-driven, autonomous capabilities.
