The RAF’s Shadow surveillance aircraft fleet will be increased
and upgraded with the latest defensive technology.
Awarded to Raytheon UK, the £110 million contract will see the
current fleet of six aircraft increased to eight, and the
integration of the latest UK Sovereign Defensive Aids Systems,
ensuring this vital capability continues to provide
battle-winning intelligence gathering for years to come.
Supporting 150 highly-skilled jobs at Broughton, including
specialist aerospace skills and apprentices, and roles at
Raytheon’s sites at RAF Waddington and Harlow, the contract will
also sustain around 350 further jobs across the UK supply chain.
Defence Minister said:
“Our newly upgraded Shadow Mk2 aircraft be equipped with
world-leading technology developed right here in the UK. This
investment supports vital defence outputs and 150 high-quality
jobs in North Wales.”
Welsh Secretary said:
“The signing of this contract with Raytheon is huge news for
North Wales and testament to the incredibly skilled local
workforce whose hard work, dedication and professionalism have
rightly been recognised.
“This is levelling up in action – the UK Government, working with
our partners and using our spending power to support jobs and
prosperity in every part of the UK.
“Today that levelling up is happening in Broughton with the
signing of this £110 million contract.”
Based at RAF Waddington and flown by 14 Squadron, Shadow forms a
key part of the RAF’s Intelligence, Surveillance, Target
Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) force by gathering
intelligence via its high-definition electro-optical and
electronic sensors.
Once the data is gathered, satellite communication links enable
the information to be assessed while the aircraft is airborne
during a mission. To protect the aircraft from possible attack,
the aircraft will be fitted with an improved state-of-the-art
Defensive Aids System (DAS).
As part of the contract, the latest DAS will be installed across
the fleet of 8 aircraft, increasing its ability to defend itself
and operate in unfriendly airspace.
Shadow Programme Senior Responsible Owner, Group Captain
Shaun Gee RAF said:
“This investment will enable the Shadow fleet to be increased in
size and equipped with the latest technology providing a key
capability as part of the RAF’s next generation Air Force.”
It is expected the first upgraded aircraft will be delivered to
the RAF in June 2023, with delivery of the eighth Shadow R Mk2
aircraft before the end of 2025”
DE&S CEO, Sir , said:
“This contract is the result of collaborative working between
DE&S and industry and ensures the RAF has the world-class
capability needed to protect the UK’s interests against
ever-evolving threats.”
The investment for an upgraded Shadow fleet forms part of the
vision laid out in the Defence Command Paper, which is ensuring
that the Armed Forces are prepared for new and emerging threats.
This ambition is underpinned by a £24 billion increase in defence
spending over next four years.
