UK Royal Navy advances Wildcat integration with uncrewed assets for Dragon Rider trial

The UK Royal Navy is progressing its plans to integrate unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into future operations through the ‘Dragon Rider’ trial. This latest activity involved adapted Wildcat helicopters working in concert with VTOL drones, demonstrating a networked operation. The RN aims to combine these UAS with Leonardo Helicopters Wildcat rotorcraft and ground personnel as part of a hybrid operating model. Specifically, the trial “vastly expanded the scope of future” integration efforts. Data gathered during this phase will contribute to refining operational procedures for combined manned and uncrewed missions within the Royal Navy.