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Drone Pilots 'Not Video Gaming Warrior Geeks'

An influential group of MPs has disputed the portrayal of military drone pilots as "video gaming warrior geeks" remote from the battlefield.

The Commons Defence Select Committee also said the MoD needed to be more open about the use of remotely piloted air systems if it wanted to improve public confidence.

This need for openness was underlined by the MPs over the sharing of intelligence amid concerns about the use of armed drones in so-called "targeted killings" by US intelligence agencies in countries such as Pakistan, Yemen and Somalia.

It follows claims by Reprieve, a legal charity, that drone operations of the UK and US were "closely intertwined".

The committee's report said: "It alleged that the UK shared intelligence with the US 'in order to support its programme of covert drone strikes, carried out by the CIA and Special Operations in Pakistan, Yemen and Somalia'."

The MPs concluded: "There should be greater transparency in relation to safeguards and limitations the UK Government has in place for the sharing of intelligence."

But the committee stressed a clear distinction had to be made between the actions of UK drones in Afghanistan, and those of other countries elsewhere.

The report said: "On the basis of the evidence we have received we are satisfied that UK remotely piloted air system operations comply fully with international law."

The MPs also backed calls for a detailed public explanation in any case where civilians have been killed in a drone strike.

And the committee praised the work of the aircrew at the RAF drone base in Lincolnshire, noting they "were experienced professional personnel with a clear purpose and keen understanding of the Rules of Engagement which govern their operations".

The report added: "Despite being remote from the battle space they exhibited a strong sense of connection to the life and death decisions they are sometimes required to take.

"This was in stark contrast to the image portrayed by some commentators of 'drone' pilots as video gaming 'warrior geeks'.

"We record here our appreciation for the important role they continue to perform in Afghanistan."

Armed forces minister Mark Francois welcomed the committee's findings.

An MoD spokesman stressed the UK's armed Reaper drones had only ever been used operationally in Afghanistan and - apart from the launch and recovery phase of the flights - had only been operated by UK pilots.