The Royal Air Force has launched a new uncrewed aircraft named StormShroud into operational service, marking the inaugural model of a new series of Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACP) that aims to transform the RAF’s advantage in highly contested battle environments.
StormShroud is designed to assist RAF F-35B Lightning and Typhoon pilots by disrupting enemy radar systems, thereby enhancing the survivability and operational efficiency of our manned aircraft. While Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS) are not a novel concept for the RAF, StormShroud has been developed by incorporating insights gained from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and various other operational theatres globally.
The RAF’s move towards ACPs is an integral component of its comprehensive strategy to adopt technological innovations and uphold its status as a premier global air force. The ACP Strategy emphasizes that the optimal approach to enhance our capabilities against progressively advanced adversaries is through a combination of manned and unmanned autonomous systems working in unison.
This model is not only more agile and adaptable but also more cost-effective, significantly mitigating the risks encountered by pilots operating traditional aircraft in hostile settings. UAS have transformed contemporary warfare, both in offensive and defensive capacities, as evidenced by recent conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
In light of the escalating threats to the United Kingdom and its NATO partners, StormShroud is poised to act as a formidable deterrent against potential aggressors.
StormShroud 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. The RAF will continuously improve the tactics, platform capability, and payload effects to remain ahead of adversary threats.
The introduction of StormShroud represents a pivotal advancement for the RAF and the UK Armed Forces in the integration of autonomous systems into frontline operations. As one of the initial high-risk capabilities of the RAF, StormShroud employs cutting-edge technology with a balanced and risk-conscious approach to assurance, thereby minimizing excessive time and cost implications.
Insights gained from the conflict in Ukraine have accelerated the production of StormShroud, resulting in a remarkable timeline of just one year from the endorsement of the Urgent Capability Requirement (UCR) to the delivery of this new capability, significantly streamlining program duration and expenses. This enhancement will enable the RAF to better defend against numerically superior adversaries while facilitating a more rapid update of our capabilities compared to conventional methods.
The operation of StormShroud will be conducted by 216 Squadron, with support from the RAF Regiment, and will consist of Regular RAF members, Royal Auxiliary Air Force (RAuxAF) personnel, and other UK Defence staff. Members of the squadron will receive training to function effectively in small teams within high-threat environments.
The RAuxAF personnel play a vital role in 216 Squadron, assisting with tasks such as the launch and recovery of StormShroud, as well as facilitating essential liaison and integration with the RAF F-35B Lightning and Typhoon FGR4 squadrons. This collaboration enhances the operational capability of StormShroud, thereby increasing the survivability and effectiveness of crewed aircraft.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton, Chief of the Air Staff stated: “This is a seminal moment for the RAF to maintain our 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.”
