Group : Unmanned Surface Vessels
Status : Active
Also Known As : Death Shark
Origin : Israel
Contractors : Rafael*, BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin
Initial Operational Capability (IOC) : 2007
Total Production : ?

Protector is an Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) developed by Rafael to perform force protection, anti-terror, and surveillance and reconnaissance missions around ports, reveries and coastal waterways. Remote-controlled and stealthy, the Protector is equipped with electro-optic (Toplite) sensors, search radar and a stabilized mini-Typhoon (MK 49 Mod 0) gun system. It has been successfully demonstrated in military operations in the Persian Gulf and Mediterranean Sea. Protector has been deployed by the Israel Defense Forces.

Basically, Protector is a high-speed boat with a propulsion system based on waterjets powered by diesel engine. The boat length varies from 9 to 11 meters. BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin and Rafael are teaming to offer the Protector for the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) and the US Coast Guard's Deepwater programs.