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British Navy Deploys New Mini Helicopter Drone Peregrine for Maritime Security Operations.
The UK Royal Navy has successfully deployed its new mini remotely piloted helicopter, Peregrine, on a long-term maritime security mission in the Middle East. This marks the first operational use of the drone, which was first announced for deployment in 2023.
The Peregrine is a 10ft long uncrewed aerial vehicle. (Picture source: UK MoD)
Peregrine, a 10ft long uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV), has demonstrated remarkable capabilities, including conducting extended sorties of up to five hours, operating beyond the horizon. The UAV was launched from the flight deck of the Type 23 frigate HMS Lancaster, where it played a key role in monitoring illicit activities on the so-called "Hash Highway," a major route for smuggling operations in the region.
The Peregrine UAV is a variant of the Schiebel S-100, equipped with advanced UK military technology, customized for the Royal Navy’s requirements. Its features include radar and an infra-red/electro-optical camera, enabling it to operate in both day and night conditions, and in poor visibility. With a maximum speed of 125 mph, the drone provides real-time intelligence by relaying live radar feeds and imagery directly to the ship’s operations room.
Lancaster's commanding officer, Sam Stephens, highlighted the significance of the integration of Peregrine into the longest-serving operational Type 23 frigate. He noted that the UAV represents a force-multiplier for the Navy, enhancing its ability to gain a strategic advantage over smugglers and other adversaries. “This is just the start, as we continue to unlock the game-changing capability with every flight,” said Stephens.
In addition to its surveillance capabilities, Peregrine has been instrumental in supporting board and search operations. During its operational debut, the drone assisted Royal Marines aboard HMS Lancaster in locating and boarding suspect dhows, leading to the successful seizure of drugs and contraband.
Peregrine's deployment also highlights HMS Lancaster’s role as the first ship in the Indian Ocean to be equipped with a new counter-drone system. This system is especially significant in light of the recent surge in drone attacks by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden region over the past 18 months.
HMS Lancaster, which embarked on a three-year-long security mission in the Gulf in 2022, has undergone extensive maintenance and upgrades during its deployment. The ship's weapon systems and sensors were enhanced, and one of its diesel generators was replaced, requiring structural modifications to the frigate.
This successful deployment of Peregrine marks a significant milestone for the Royal Navy, as it continues to integrate cutting-edge unmanned systems into its maritime operations.