Defense & Military
RAF Deploys StormShroud EW Drones for Manned-Unmanned Teaming
UK’s Royal Air Force introduces electronic warfare drone to disrupt enemy systems alongside fighter jets, leveraging lessons from Ukraine and GCAP partnerships.
RAF Unveils StormShroud: A New Era of Electronic Warfare Drones
The Royal Air Force (RAF) has taken a significant step forward in modern aerial warfare with the unveiling of its new electronic warfare drone, StormShroud. Designed to operate alongside manned fighter jets like the F-35B and Eurofighter Typhoon, this drone represents a strategic evolution in the U.K.’s approach to contested airspace and electronic warfare capabilities.
As global threats become more sophisticated and the electromagnetic spectrum increasingly contested, the integration of unmanned systems into frontline operations is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a necessity. StormShroud is not just a drone; it’s a tactical enabler designed to jam enemy radar, disrupt integrated air defense systems, and enhance the survivability of RAF pilots. With this move, the RAF joins a growing list of nations embracing manned-unmanned teaming concepts in their air combat doctrines.
This development aligns with broader trends in defense modernization, particularly within the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a trilateral initiative between the U.K., Italy, and Japan. It also reflects lessons learned from recent conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, where electronic warfare and drone capabilities have proven decisive.
StormShroud and Its Role in RAF’s Future Combat Strategy
Design and Capabilities of StormShroud
StormShroud is based on the Tekever AR3 platform, a propeller-driven drone known for its operational success in Ukraine. Unlike jet-powered drones like the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), StormShroud is designed for a more specific role: electronic warfare. It carries a payload developed by Leonardo, a prominent defense technology firm, tailored to jam radars and disrupt enemy communications.
While it does not possess the advanced autonomy or direct control features of U.S. CCAs, StormShroud is pre-programmed to fly specific routes and execute jamming operations. This makes it ideal for high-risk missions in contested environments, where human pilots would face elevated danger. The RAF categorizes StormShroud as a tier two drone—attritable but not disposable—striking a balance between cost-effectiveness and capability.
Stacie Pettyjohn, Director of the Defense Program at the Center for a New American Security, emphasized that StormShroud is “intended to be used as a stand-in jammer or decoy that would be employed with F-35Bs or Typhoons operating inside of enemy air defenses.” It is not a “loyal wingman” in the traditional sense but serves as a tactical complement to manned assets.
“StormShroud provides cheap, precise mass and has been rapidly developed and fielded. It reflects a pragmatic approach to integrating drones into frontline operations.” — Stacie Pettyjohn, CNAS
Strategic Importance and Operational Context
The introduction of StormShroud marks a pivot in RAF doctrine toward a more distributed, networked approach to aerial combat. By offloading high-risk tasks to unmanned systems, the RAF can preserve its human pilots for mission-critical decision-making while still engaging and degrading enemy air defenses.
This strategy is not isolated. It forms part of the U.K.’s broader modernization under the Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy (2021), which emphasized autonomous systems and future air capabilities. The Ministry of Defence has allocated £2.3 billion toward future combat air programs, a portion of which supports drone development.
StormShroud is currently operated by the RAF’s 216 Squadron, a unit tasked with integrating cutting-edge technologies into operational concepts. Its deployment will also inform future iterations of the Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACP) family, which could include long-range strike drones and more survivable tier three systems.
Lessons from Ukraine and Global Implications
The RAF’s choice of the Tekever AR3, a platform proven in Ukraine, signals a shift toward using real-world conflict data to shape procurement and design. In Ukraine, drones have been instrumental in both reconnaissance and electronic warfare, highlighting their value in modern conflicts where traditional air superiority is challenged.
Globally, over 20 countries are investing in autonomous military systems, according to the International Institute for Strategic Studies. The U.S. is advancing its CCA program, Russia is developing the Sukhoi S-70 Okhotnik-B, and Australia is collaborating with Boeing on the Airpower Teaming System. The RAF’s StormShroud initiative places the U.K. firmly in this competitive arena.
Justin Bronk of the Royal United Services Institute noted, “Integrating electronic warfare drones with fighter jets represents a paradigm shift in air combat. These systems can act as force multipliers, allowing pilots to focus on mission objectives while drones handle high-risk tasks.”
Challenges and Future Opportunities
Technological and Ethical Considerations
While StormShroud offers clear tactical benefits, it also raises questions about autonomy, control, and rules of engagement. The drone is not designed for full autonomy but still operates without real-time pilot input, which may complicate accountability in combat scenarios.
Dr. Sarah Kreps from Cornell University cautions, “The ethical and operational challenges of manned-unmanned teaming are significant, but the potential to reduce pilot casualties and enhance mission success rates cannot be ignored.” As these systems evolve, so too must the legal and ethical frameworks governing their use.
Another challenge lies in interoperability. As NATO and allied forces increasingly adopt similar technologies, ensuring that systems can communicate and coordinate effectively will be essential to coalition operations.
Industrial and Economic Impacts
StormShroud’s development also has implications for the U.K.’s defense industry. Companies like Leonardo and BAE Systems stand to benefit from increased demand for AI-driven systems, secure communications, and electronic warfare capabilities. The Global Combat Air Programme will likely incorporate lessons from StormShroud into its broader design architecture.
This initiative also supports the U.K.’s goal of maintaining a competitive edge in the global defense market. By fielding drones that are both cost-effective and tactically relevant, the RAF can influence international standards and attract foreign investment and collaboration.
In the long term, the RAF envisions a fleet of drones with varying levels of capability and cost—ranging from expendable surveillance drones to survivable strike platforms. StormShroud is just the beginning of this layered approach to drone warfare.
Looking Ahead: Integration and Innovation
The RAF plans to integrate StormShroud into active service within the next decade, aligning with broader modernization timelines. Future iterations may include enhanced autonomy, longer range, and multi-role capabilities such as strike or logistics support.
The RAF’s commitment to innovation is clear. As Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton stated, “Autonomous collaborative platforms will revolutionise how we conduct a range of missions, from intelligence gathering to strike and logistical support.”
With continued investment and international collaboration, the U.K. is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of air combat. StormShroud may be a modest beginning, but it represents a monumental shift in how wars will be fought—and won—in the skies.
Conclusion
StormShroud represents more than just a new drone—it symbolizes the RAF’s strategic transition toward integrated, multi-domain operations. By leveraging proven technologies and focusing on electronic warfare, the RAF is addressing current threats while laying the groundwork for future capabilities.
As global powers race to dominate the electromagnetic spectrum and redefine air superiority, the U.K.’s investment in manned-unmanned teaming ensures it remains a key player on the world stage. The road ahead will involve challenges in technology, ethics, and interoperability—but the direction is clear, and the momentum is building.
FAQ
What is StormShroud?
StormShroud is an electronic warfare drone developed by the Royal Air Force to fly alongside manned fighter jets and disrupt enemy radar and air defense systems.
How is StormShroud different from U.S. Collaborative Combat Aircraft?
Unlike the U.S. CCAs, StormShroud is not jet-powered or highly autonomous. It follows pre-programmed routes and is designed for electronic warfare, not direct combat support.
When will StormShroud be operational?
While no exact deployment date has been confirmed, the RAF aims to integrate StormShroud into active service within the next decade.
Sources:
Air & Space Forces Magazine,
U.K. Ministry of Defence Annual Report 2023,
Integrated Review 2021,
Royal United Services Institute,
BAE Systems,
International Institute for Strategic Studies,
Cornell University
Photo Credit: BreakingDefense
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Defense & Military
Rolls-Royce MissionCare Contract for French-German C-130J Fleet
Rolls-Royce finalizes MissionCare propulsion subcontract with Sabena technics for the joint French-German C-130J fleet through 2030.
On July 23, 2026, Rolls-Royce announced the finalization of a subcontract with French aerospace services provider Sabena technics to deliver proprietary MissionCare propulsion support for the joint French-German Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules fleet. The agreement embeds original equipment manufacturer (OEM) personnel directly into the squadron’s operational environment to maximize engine availability.
The propulsion support agreement, which runs through December 2030, serves as a direct follow-on to the overarching CAROLUS operational readiness and maintenance program. France’s Directorate of Aeronautical Maintenance (DMAé) awarded the 10-year CAROLUS prime contract to Sabena technics in January 2026 to create an integrated maintenance ecosystem for the binational squadron.
Fleet integration and operational readiness
The Binational Air Transport Squadron (BATS), based at Évreux-Fauville Air Base 105 in France, operates a combined fleet of 10 Military-Aircraft. This includes five standard C-130J transport aircraft and five KC-130J aerial refueling variants, all powered by Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 turboprop engines.
Under the MissionCare framework, Rolls-Royce will provide flight-hour-based sustainment services. The Contracts structure places Rolls-Royce Field Service Representatives and logistics personnel directly alongside Sabena technics teams on the ground.
In a press release detailing the agreement, Meagan Rater, Director of US Mature Programmes for Defence at Rolls-Royce, emphasized the operational focus of the Partnerships.
“Bringing our MissionCare program to the joint French-German C-130J fleet means we can embed our team directly alongside Sabena technics. This is not just a services contract, it is a hands-on partnership where our OEM engineering expertise will be on the ground every day. By integrating our Field Service Representatives and logistics directly into their daily operations, we are ensuring maximum engine availability and keeping these critical strategic assets flight-ready for every mission.”
Strategic maintenance ecosystem
The integration of the engine manufacturer into the daily maintenance workflow is designed to reduce operational risk for the European multinational air mobility fleet. Sabena technics Chief Executive Officer Hervé Grandjean noted that bringing Rolls-Royce into the CAROLUS ecosystem completes the company’s vision for an integrated support network.
“With the award of the CAROLUS contract, our vision is to build an integrated support network capable of guaranteeing availability for the French-German fleet. Bringing Rolls-Royce into this ecosystem with their MissionCare program completes that vision. With the engine OEM embedded alongside our teams on the ground means we are proactively managing aircraft readiness together, ensuring the vital, binational squadron is always ready to deploy.”
AirPro News analysis
We view this subcontract as a clear indicator of the growing preference among European defense ministries for integrated, flight-hour-based sustainment models over traditional transactional maintenance. By embedding the OEM directly at the squadron level, the DMAé and Sabena technics are prioritizing guaranteed readiness for high-demand tactical airlift and aerial refueling assets. The structure of the CAROLUS program effectively shifts the burden of supply chain and engineering risk from the military operator to the commercial partners.
Sources: Rolls-Royce
Photo Credit: Rolls-Royce
Defense & Military
CAE and Leonardo Expand M-346 Integrated Training System
CAE and Leonardo announced an expanded M-346 ITS collaboration at Farnborough 2026 to advance LVC and AI-enabled military pilot training.
CAE Inc. and Leonardo S.p.A. announced an expanded collaboration agreement on July 22, 2026, at the Farnborough International Airshow to develop a next-generation technology roadmap for the M-346 Integrated Training System (ITS). The partnership will integrate Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) environments to prepare military aviators for increasingly autonomous and artificial intelligence-enabled battlespaces.
The agreement builds on the existing joint operation of the International Flight Training School (IFTS) located in Decimomannu, Sardinia, Italy. According to the joint press release, the companies will focus on advancing the M-346 Block 20 system features and expanding Live Synthetic Integration (LSI) capabilities to meet evolving tactical training requirements for global air forces.
Advancing the M-346 Integrated Training System
The technology roadmap outlined by CAE and Leonardo targets the integration of advanced simulation with live flight operations. As military aviation shifts toward next-generation air operations, the training syllabus must adapt to environments where pilots manage complex, automated mission systems rather than focusing solely on aircraft handling.
Pascal Grenier, President of CAE Defense & Security, highlighted the operational focus of the expanded partnership in the company’s official statement.
“Our longstanding collaboration with Leonardo and the International Flight Training School (IFTS) stands as the premier example of combining highly sophisticated simulation technologies and live flight training to deliver world-class pilot instruction and operational readiness.”
Grenier added that future battlespaces will place unprecedented demands on pilots, requiring training environments that build judgment, adaptability, and decision-making skills. Stefano Bortoli, Managing Director of Leonardo Aeronautics, noted that the agreement will strengthen the development of highly skilled pilots for current and future operational requirements.
Expanding Global Footprint and Financial Context
The Farnborough announcement follows a series of recent international agreements involving the M-346 platform. On May 26, 2026, ITPS Canada ordered Leonardo M-346 T Block 20 advanced jet trainers. Subsequently, on July 21, 2026, Leonardo signed a procurement contract with PT ESystem Solutions and the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Indonesia for M-346 F aircraft to fulfill Indonesian Air Force training and combat requirements.
Leonardo also utilized the Farnborough event to highlight its broader defense sector momentum. On July 22, 2026, the manufacturer signed a separate agreement with Lockheed Martin to strengthen maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the C-130J Super Hercules across Europe and the Middle East and North Africa regions.
The press release detailing the CAE partnership also provided an update on Leonardo’s financial standing. The company reported 2025 new orders totaling €23.8 billion, an order backlog of €46.6 billion, and consolidated revenues of €19.5 billion.
AirPro News analysis
We view this expanded CAE and Leonardo partnership as a necessary evolution in military flight training. As sixth-generation fighter programs and collaborative combat aircraft concepts mature, the cognitive load on pilots will shift heavily from basic airmanship to systems management and tactical battle management.
By embedding LVC and LSI technologies directly into the M-346 ITS roadmap, Leonardo and CAE are positioning the platform to remain relevant against emerging clean-sheet trainer designs. The recent string of international orders for both the trainer and fighter variants of the M-346 indicates that the airframe still has significant market runway, provided the synthetic training environment keeps pace with frontline combat systems.
Sources: Leonardo Press Release
Photo Credit: Leonardo
Defense & Military
Embraer C-390 to Integrate Anduril Barracuda-500M Missile
Embraer and Anduril signed an MoU at Farnborough 2026 to add pallet-launched Barracuda-500M strike capability to the C-390 Millennium.
Embraer S.A. and Anduril Industries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on July 21, 2026, to integrate the pallet-launched Barracuda-500M stand-off cruise missile into the C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft. The agreement, announced at the Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom, introduces a kinetic strike role to the Brazilian manufacturer’s tactical airlifter.
In a press release issued by Embraer, the companies confirmed the partnerships aims to allow the C-390 to conduct palletized launches of kinetic effects. This capability enables dispersed operations and allows transport aircraft to serve as stand-off launch platforms without requiring permanent structural modifications.
Expanding the C-390 Millennium mission profile
The C-390 Millennium features a payload capacity of 26 metric tons (57,300 pounds) and a cruise speed of 470 knots. Integrating a palletized launch system allows operators to roll munitions on and off the aircraft using standard cargo handling procedures, temporarily converting the airlifter into a strike platform.
“By exploring the integration of stand-off launch capabilities for palletized, kinetic, and non-kinetic effects, we are further expanding the aircraft’s flexibility to meet the evolving needs of modern air forces,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense and Security.
Anduril’s Barracuda-500M integration
Anduril Industries first successfully tested a pallet-launched Barracuda-500M (B-500M) in September 2024. The system is designed for rapid production and scalability to meet high-volume munitions requirements. On July 15, 2026, Anduril secured a procurement framework agreement with the United States Department of Defense (DoD) for large-scale production of the Barracuda 500 series, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2027.
“Integrating the pallet-launched Barracuda-500M with Embraer’s C-390 Millennium gives allied militaries a new way to generate massed, stand-off effects from a proven airlift platform,” said Greg Kausner, Senior Vice President for Global Defense at Anduril Industries.
Kausner added that the Barracuda family of systems delivers operationally relevant capabilities to meet the growing demand for affordable munitions.
Global market demand
The C-390 has gained significant traction in the military-aircraft transport market. To date, 12 countries have selected the aircraft, including Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Republic of Korea, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, Uzbekistan, Sweden, the United Arab Emirates, Slovakia, and Lithuania.
According to da Costa Junior, the push for palletized munitions is driven directly by customer interest. He noted that Embraer is receiving demand for this capability from several countries across Europe and Asia.
While the companies have not provided a specific date for the first live test of the B-500M from a C-390, Embraer representatives indicated the integration process can be completed rapidly.
AirPro News analysis
We view the Embraer and Anduril partnership as a direct response to the growing tactical interest in “arsenal plane” concepts. Programs like the U.S. Air Force Rapid Dragon have demonstrated the viability of deploying long-range strike weapons from standard cargo aircraft. By partnering with Anduril to offer a turnkey palletized strike capability, Embraer significantly enhances the value proposition of the C-390 Millennium against competitors in the tactical airlift sector. For smaller air forces that cannot afford dedicated heavy bomber fleets, outfitting a multi-role transport aircraft with stand-off cruise missiles provides a highly cost-effective deterrent.
Sources: Embraer
Photo Credit: Embraer
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