By Craig Hoyle2021-02-05T14:51:00+00:00 General Atomics Aeronautical Systems will deploy a company-owned and -operated MQ-9B SkyGuardian unmanned air vehicle (UAV) to the UK in July, in order to conduct a series of capability demonstrations for its Royal Air Force (RAF) customer and other European militaries. The UK last year signed a £65 million ($89 million) contract for its first three MQ-9B-derivative Protector RG1s and an initial three ground control stations (GCS), and General Atomics performed a first flight of the UK variant in September. The RAF says a follow-on deal for another 13 aircraft, four GCS and related support equipment should be finalised this year.