As expected, MBDA has received a contract for the integration of the Brimstone high-precision strike missile onto the Royal Air Force’s Protector RG Mk1 remotely piloted aircraft developed and manufactured by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

The Brimstone-armed Protector RG Mk1 will be designed to provide key new capabilities to the Royal Air Force’s intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) force, allowing engagement with high-speed moving and manoeuvring targets (including maritime fast attack craft for the first time). The Protector RG Mk1 can carry three lightweight Brimstones per weapon station, and so offers a much higher loadout than the Reaper platform it will replace.

Integration of Brimstone onto Protector RG Mk1 — the weaponised version of MQ-9B SkyGuardian — follows a series of successful firing trials of Brimstone from the Reaper/Predator B aircraft in the United States that demonstrated the advancement in performance that Brimstone offers. Brimstone integration will be completed in time for the entry to service of the aircraft with the RAF.

Earlier in 2018, the UK MoD announced a £400m contract with MBDA for the capability sustainment programme (CSP) of Brimstone missile, to build new missiles and extend this missile's service life beyond 2030.

Brimstone will also be carried by RAF Typhoon fighter aircraft and British Army Apache attack helicopters.