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Royal Air Force (RAF) has introduced a new uncrewed air system (UAS) called StormShroud into operational service. It is the first of a new family of autonomous collaborative platforms (ACPs) designed to support the RAF’s manned combat aircraft. StormShroud will support RAF F-35B Lightning and Typhoon pilots by blinding enemy radars, which increases the survivability and operational effectiveness of the crewed aircraft. StormShroud has been developed using lessons from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as well as other operational theatres.
The RAF’s exploration of ACPs is part of its broader strategy to embrace technological advancements and maintain its position as a world-leading air force. The ACP strategy is clear that the best way to optimise the UK’s strength against increasingly sophisticated adversaries is through a blend of crewed and uncrewed autonomous platforms operating in tandem.
It is a more agile, adaptable and cost-effective model that significantly reduces the risks faced by pilots in conventional aircraft when flying and fighting in hostile environments. UAS have revolutionised the battlespace, both offensively and defensively, as recent conflicts ranging from Ukraine to the Middle East have shown. In a world of increasing threat to the UK and its NATO allies, StormShroud will serve as a powerful deterrent to potential aggressors.
The platform for StormShroud, the Tekever AR3, is manufactured in west Wales and Southampton and delivered through a contract reflecting the platform’s proven capabilities in Ukraine. The AR3 will carry Leonardo UK’s BriteStorm electronic warfare payload, which is manufactured in Luton. The drone has been developed in the UK by the RAF’s Rapid Capabilities Office, the Catalyst team in Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), Defence Science and Technology Laboratories (DSTL), and UK industry.
Integrated autonomous systemsThe delivery of StormShroud marks a significant step for the RAF and the defence industry in the journey of integrated autonomous systems into front line operations. StormShroud is one of the first RAF high-risk capabilities; where cutting edge technology is brought into service with a balanced and risk-aware approach to assurance, avoiding excessive time and cost penalties. Lessons learned from the war in Ukraine have boosted StormShroud’s production and it has taken just one year from the Urgent Capability Requirement (UCR) being endorsed to delivering the new capability, significantly reducing programme time and costs. This will allow the RAF to defend against adversaries with greater numbers while updating the UK’s capabilities much faster than traditional approaches would have allowed.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton, chief of the Air Staff, said: “This is a seminal moment for the RAF to maintain its advantage in air combat and national security. The RAF is committed to exploring cutting-edge technologies that can enhance its lethality and survivability in a more contested and dangerous world. Autonomous collaborative platforms will revolutionise how we conduct a range of missions, from intelligence gathering to strike and logistical support. We are excited to be at the forefront of this innovation and are working closely with industry partners to explore the possibilities.”
StormShroud will be operated by 216 Squadron, supported by the RAF Regiment, and made up of Regular RAF, Royal Auxiliary Air Force (RAuxAF), alongside other UK Defence personnel. Squadron personnel will be trained to operate in small teams and in high threat environments. RAuxAF personnel are an essential part of 216 Squadron, supporting activities such as launch and recovery of StormShroud as well as the critical liaison and integration with RAF F-35B Lightning and Typhoon FGR4 squadrons. This makes StormShroud a truly collaborative capability, improving the survivability and lethality of crewed aircraft.