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==Aircraft== {{Further|List of aircraft of the RAF|List of active United Kingdom military aircraft}} ===Air combat=== ====Typhoon==== [[File:Eurofighter Typhoon FIA 2012.jpg|thumb|[[Eurofighter Typhoon|Typhoon FGR4]]]] [[File:F-35B (52298898734).jpg|thumb|[[Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|F-35B Lightning]]]] The [[Eurofighter Typhoon|Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4]] is the RAF's primary multi-role air defence and ground attack fighter aircraft,<ref name="RAFTYPH">{{Cite web|url=https://www.RAF.mod.uk/aircraft/typhoon-fgr4/|title=Typhoon FGR4|website=RAF.mod.uk|publisher=Royal Air Force|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200421163437/https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/typhoon-fgr4/|archive-date=21 April 2020|access-date=24 May 2020|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Jennings|first=Gareth|date=22 September 2014|url=http://www.Janes.com/article/43466/raf-lossiemouth-undertakes-first-qra-north-scramble|title=RAF Lossiemouth undertakes first QRA North scramble|website=Janes.com|publisher=IHS Jane's Defence Weekly|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150201141549/http://www.janes.com/article/43466/raf-lossiemouth-undertakes-first-qra-north-scramble|archive-date=1 February 2015|access-date=23 September 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> following the retirement of the [[Panavia Tornado ADV|Panavia Tornado F3]] in late March 2011.<ref name=Retirement>{{Cite web|first=Craig|last=Hoyle|date=22 March 2011|url=http://www.FlightGlobal.com/articles/2011/03/22/354597/video.html|title=UK retires last Tornado F3 fighters|website=FlightGlobal.com|publisher=Flight Global|access-date=22 March 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110821065331/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/03/22/354597/video.html |archive-date=21 August 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> With the completion of 'Project Centurion' upgrades, the Typhoon FGR4 took over ground attack duties from the [[Panavia Tornado GR4]], which was retired on 1 April 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|first=Craig|last=Hoyle|date=8 November 2018|url=https://www.FlightGlobal.com/news/articles/picture-raf-tornado-gains-retirement-markings-453466/|title=The UK Royal Air Force is advancing with preparations to mark the departure from service of its last Panavia Tornado GR4 strike aircraft next March|website=FlightGlobal.com|publisher=Flight Global|access-date=14 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190124011009/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/picture-raf-tornado-gains-retirement-markings-453466/|archive-date=24 January 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|first=Jon|last=Lake|date=4 February 2019|url=https://www.Janes.com/article/86148/raf-typhoons-replace-tornados-in-operation-shader-armed-with-brimstone-for-first-time|title=RAF Typhoons replace Tornados in Operation 'Shader' armed with Brimstone for first time|website=Janes.com|publisher=Jane's 360|access-date=14 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190207015331/https://www.janes.com/article/86148/raf-typhoons-replace-tornados-in-operation-shader-armed-with-brimstone-for-first-time|archive-date=7 February 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|first=Gareth|last=Jennings|date=6 July 2018|url=https://www.Janes.com/article/81570/raf-receives-first-centurion-typhoons-ahead-of-tornado-retirement|title=RAF receives first 'Centurion' Typhoons ahead of Tornado retirement|website=Janes.com|publisher=Jane's 360|access-date=1 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190301140140/https://www.janes.com/article/81570/raf-receives-first-centurion-typhoons-ahead-of-tornado-retirement|archive-date=1 March 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref> The Typhoon is tasked to defend UK airspace, while also frequently deploying in support of NATO air defence missions in the Baltic (Operation Azotize), Black Sea (Operation Biloxi), and Iceland ([[Icelandic Air Policing]]).<ref name="RAFTYPH"/><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.RAF.mod.uk/news/articles/royal-air-force-jets-to-patrol-icelandic-skies-for-nato/|title=Royal Air Force jets to patrol Icelandic skies for NATO|website=RAF.mod.uk|publisher=Royal Air Force|date=13 November 2019|access-date=24 May 2020|archive-date=28 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200728115952/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/royal-air-force-jets-to-patrol-icelandic-skies-for-nato/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The RAF has seven front-line Typhoon squadrons, plus an [[Operational Conversion Unit]] (OCU), and [[Operational Evaluation Unit]] (OEU); [[No. 3 Squadron RAF|No. 3 (Fighter) Squadron]], [[No. 11 Squadron RAF|No. XI (F) Squadron]], [[No. 12 Squadron RAF|No. 12 Squadron]] (joint RAF / [[Qatar Air Force]]), [[No. 29 Squadron RAF|No. 29 Squadron]] (OCU), and [[No. 41 Squadron RAF|No. 41 Test and Evaluation Squadron]] (OEU) based at [[RAF Coningsby]]; with [[1 Squadron RAF|No. 1 (F) Squadron]], [[No. 2 Squadron RAF|No. II (Army Cooperation) Squadron]], [[No. 6 Squadron RAF|No. 6 Squadron]], and [[No. 9 Squadron RAF|No. IX (Bomber) Squadron]] based at [[RAF Lossiemouth]].<ref name="RAFTYPH"/><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.Gov.uk/government/news/typhoon-aircraft-relocate-to-raf-lossiemouth|title=Typhoon aircraft relocate to RAF Lossiemouth|website=Gov.uk|publisher=[[HM Government]]|access-date=29 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124133920/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/typhoon-aircraft-relocate-to-raf-lossiemouth|archive-date=24 November 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> Additionally, four Typhoons (''Faith'', ''Hope'', ''Charity'', and ''Desperation''<ref>A referenced to aircraft of the [[Hal Far Fighter Flight RAF]] which defended Malta in the Second World War</ref>) are based at [[RAF Mount Pleasant]] on the [[Falkland Islands]], forming [[No. 1435 Flight RAF|No. 1435 Flight]], where they provide air defence.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.RAF.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-mount-pleasant/#1435-flight|title=RAF Mount Pleasant – 1435 Flight|website=RAF.mod.uk|publisher=Royal Air Force|access-date=24 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190329074753/https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-mount-pleasant/#1435-flight|archive-date=29 March 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref> It was originally suggested that an eighth front-line Typhoon squadron could be formed,<ref>{{Cite magazine|last=Warnes|first=Alan|date=June 2020|title=Reaching for the stars: UK combat air|magazine=[[Air Forces Monthly]]|publisher=[[Key Publishing]]|page=34}}</ref> however, the [[Defence in a Competitive Age|2021 Defence Command Paper]] announced the retirement of 24 Tranche 1 Typhoons by 2025, and a commitment to seven front-line squadrons.<ref name="2021DCP">{{Cite web|url=https://assets.publishing.service.Gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/971859/_CP_411__-_Defence_in_a_competitive_age.pdf|title=Defence in a competitive age|website=assets.publishing.service.Gov.uk|publisher=[[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|Ministry of Defence]]|date=22 March 2021|access-date=26 March 2021|archive-date=23 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210323101323/https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/971859/_CP_411__-_Defence_in_a_competitive_age.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|first1=Guy|last1=Anderson|first2=Jon|last2=Hawkes|first3=Gareth|last3=Jennings|first4=Kate|last4=Tringham|url=https://www.Janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/the-uk-s-integrated-review-and-defence-command-paper|title=The UK's integrated review and Defence Command Paper|website=Janes.com|publisher=Janes|date=23 March 2021|access-date=26 March 2021|archive-date=25 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210325153823/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/the-uk-s-integrated-review-and-defence-command-paper|url-status=live}}</ref> The Typhoon made its combat debut in support of [[Operation Ellamy]] in 2011, and has been supporting [[Operation Shader]] since December 2015.<ref name="RAFTYPH"/> Typhoons have also been supporting [[2024 missile strikes in Yemen|Operation Poseidon Archer]] since January 2024.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/air-strikes-against-houthi-military-targets-in-yemen |title=Air strikes against Houthi military targets in Yemen: 11 January 2024 |website=gov.uk |date=12 January 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024}}</ref> The Typhoon made its first air-to-air kill in December 2021, shooting down a small hostile drone near [[Al-Tanf (U.S. military base)|Al-Tanf base]], Syria, with an [[ASRAAM]].<ref>{{cite web |first=Thomas |last=Newdick |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/43547/british-typhoon-fighter-downed-a-drone-over-syria-for-its-first-air-to-air-kill |title=British Typhoon Fighter Downed A Drone Over Syria For Its First Air-To-Air Kill |website=The Drive |date=17 December 2021 |access-date=25 April 2023 |archive-date=25 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230425103941/https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/43547/british-typhoon-fighter-downed-a-drone-over-syria-for-its-first-air-to-air-kill |url-status=dead }}</ref> ====Lightning==== The [[Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II]] is a single-seat, single-engine, all-weather [[Stealth aircraft|stealth]] [[multirole combat aircraft]]. It is intended to perform both [[Air superiority fighter|air superiority]] and [[Attack aircraft|strike]] missions while also providing [[electronic warfare]] and [[intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance]] capabilities. It will be jointly operated by the RAF and the Royal Navy and with its ability to perform [[STOVL|short take-offs and vertical-landings]] (STOVL), can operate from the Royal Navy's [[Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier|''Queen Elizabeth''-class]] aircraft carriers.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Lightning F-35B|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170910172607/https://www.raf.mod.uk/|archive-date=10 September 2017|access-date=1 July 2020|website=Royal Air Force|language=en-gb}}</ref> Originally a total of 138 Lightnings were planned,<ref>{{cite web|date=2 August 2012|title=UK Tornado fleet to retire in 2019, says BAE|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-tornado-fleet-to-retire-in-2019-says-bae-375014/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120819071159/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-tornado-fleet-to-retire-in-2019-says-bae-375014/|archive-date=19 August 2012|access-date=4 November 2012|publisher=Flightglobal.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=25 March 2013|title=BBC News – RAF Marham base for Joint Strike Fighter|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-norfolk-21925225|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130528100753/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-norfolk-21925225|archive-date=28 May 2013|access-date=8 July 2013|publisher=BBC}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Gareth|last=Corfield|date=19 May 2017|title=Blighty's buying another 17 F-35s, confirms the American government|website=[[The Register]]|url=https://www.theregister.co.uk/2017/05/19/uk_buys_17_more_f35b_lrip_12_14/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170806152349/http://www.theregister.co.uk/2017/05/19/uk_buys_17_more_f35b_lrip_12_14/|archive-date=6 August 2017|access-date=22 July 2017}}</ref> however the 2021 Defence Command Paper amended this to a commitment to increase the fleet beyond the current order of 48.<ref name="2021DCP"/> By May 2025, 39 F-35Bs had been delivered to the RAF<ref>{{cite web | url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/britain-takes-delivery-of-more-f-35-stealth-jets/ | title=Britain takes delivery of more F-35 stealth jets |website=U.K. Defence Journal |last=Langford |first=Craig | date= 8 May 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.f35.com/f35/global-enterprise/united-kingdom.html |title=United Kingdom |website=F-35 Lightning II |access-date=15 August 2024}}</ref><ref name="auto3">{{cite web | url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/britain-takes-delivery-of-more-new-f-35-stealth-jets/#:~:text=The%20arrival%20of%20more%20F,by%20the%20end%20of%202025. | title=Britain takes delivery of more new F-35 stealth jets |website=UK Defence Journal |last=Allison |first=George | date= 17 March 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=George |last=Allison |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/britain-takes-delivery-of-more-f-35-jets/ |title=Britain takes delivery of more F-35 jets |website=UK Defence Journal |date=21 November 2022 |access-date=20 January 2023}}</ref> (though one crashed in November 2021).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.forces.net/news/hms-queen-elizabeth-british-f-35-crashes-over-mediterranean|title=HMS Queen Elizabeth: British F-35 crashes in Mediterranean|website=Forces Network|date=17 November 2021 |access-date=29 January 2022|archive-date=29 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129150930/https://www.forces.net/news/hms-queen-elizabeth-british-f-35-crashes-over-mediterranean|url-status=live}}</ref> The F-35B has an out of service date (OSD) of 2069.<ref>{{cite web |first=Alex |last=Chalk |url=https://committees.parliament.uk/publications/33417/documents/181571/default/ |title=Letter dated 9th January from Secretary of State to Chair regarding F-35 Update |website=UK Parliament |date=9 January 2023 |access-date=27 January 2023}}</ref> The first RAF squadron to operate the F-35B was [[No. 17 Squadron RAF|No. 17 Test and Evaluation Squadron]] at [[Edwards Air Force Base|Edwards AFB]], California, accepting its first aircraft in 2014.<ref name="17Sqn">{{cite web|title=17(R) Squadron|url=http://www.raf.mod.uk/organisation/17squadron.cfm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161028111104/http://www.raf.mod.uk/organisation/17squadron.cfm|archive-date=28 October 2016|access-date=1 April 2019|publisher=Royal Air Force}}</ref> [[No. 617 Squadron RAF|No. 617 (The Dambusters) Squadron]] officially reformed on 18 April 2018 as the first operational RAF Lightning squadron.<ref>{{cite web|date=2018-04-18|title=RAF's legendary Dambusters squadron reforms to fly F-35 Lightning jets | Royal Air Force|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/rafs-legendary-dambusters-squadron-reforms-to-fly-f-35-jets/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180815200857/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/rafs-legendary-dambusters-squadron-reforms-to-fly-f-35-jets/|archive-date=15 August 2018|access-date=2018-08-15|publisher=Raf.mod.uk}}</ref> The first four aircraft arrived at [[RAF Marham]] from the United States in June 2018,<ref>{{cite web|author=Taz Ali|title=F-35 Lightning fighter jets arrive at RAF Marham | Latest Norfolk and Suffolk News – Eastern Daily Press|date=7 June 2018|url=http://www.edp24.co.uk/news/f-35-lightning-touches-down-in-norfolk-1-5551093|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180815200954/http://www.edp24.co.uk/news/f-35-lightning-touches-down-in-norfolk-1-5551093|archive-date=15 August 2018|access-date=2018-08-15|publisher=Edp24.co.uk}}</ref> with a further five arriving in August 2018.<ref name="itv.com2">{{cite web|title=Further five F-35 fighter jets land at new RAF Marham home|url=http://www.itv.com/news/anglia/2018-08-04/further-five-f-35-fighter-jets-land-at-new-raf-marham-home/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180804170047/http://www.itv.com/news/anglia/2018-08-04/further-five-f-35-fighter-jets-land-at-new-raf-marham-home/|archive-date=4 August 2018|access-date=4 August 2018|website=ITN News|date=4 August 2018}}</ref> The Lightning was declared combat ready in January 2019.<ref>{{cite news|title=First F-35 jets ready to battle for Britain|url=https://www.thetimes.com/world/middle-east/article/first-f-35-jets-ready-to-battle-for-britain-2pnwb6lqr|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190111042516/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/edition/news/first-f-35-jets-ready-to-battle-for-britain-2pnwb6lqr|archive-date=11 January 2019|access-date=11 January 2019}}</ref> The second UK based F-35B squadron to be formed was [[No. 207 Squadron RAF|No. 207 Squadron]] on 1 August 2019 as the OCU for both RAF and Royal Navy pilots.<ref>{{cite web|date=5 July 2017|title=Identity of F-35 Lightning Training Squadron Announced|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/archive/identity-of-f35-lightning-training-squadron-announced-05072017/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728213241/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/archive/identity-of-f35-lightning-training-squadron-announced-05072017/|archive-date=28 July 2017|access-date=1 April 2019|publisher=Royal Air Force}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=17 July 2019|title=Second Lightning Fight Jet Squadron Arrives In UK|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/second-lightning-fighter-jet-squadron-arrives-in-uk/|access-date=20 January 2020|website=raf.mod.uk|archive-date=17 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190717153939/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/second-lightning-fighter-jet-squadron-arrives-in-uk/|url-status=live}}</ref> === Intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) === Six [[Beechcraft Super King Air|Hawker Beechcraft Shadow R1]]s (with two more to be converted) are operated by [[No. 14 Squadron RAF|No. 14 Squadron]] from RAF Waddington, these aircraft are King Air 350CERs that have been specially converted for the ISTAR role.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/shadow-r1/ |title=Shadow R1 |publisher=Royal Air Force |access-date=28 February 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806073108/https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/shadow-r1/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Four Shadow R1s were originally ordered in 2007 due to an [[Urgent Operational Requirement]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://kingairnation.com/uk-to-acquire-two-more-beechcraft-king-air-350-derived-shadow-r-1/ |title=UK To Acquire Two More Beechcraft King Air 350-Derived Shadow R.1 |website=King Air Nation |date=27 November 2015 |access-date=28 February 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806160305/https://kingairnation.com/uk-to-acquire-two-more-beechcraft-king-air-350-derived-shadow-r-1/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and began the conversion process to the ISTAR role in 2009.<ref name="shadow">{{cite web |url=http://www.defence-solutions.co.uk/Public/News/news_view.aspx?articleid=52 |title=UK converts King Air 350s into ISTAR platforms |date=13 January 2009 |work=defence-solutions.co.uk |access-date=16 February 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090414125741/http://www.defence-solutions.co.uk/Public/News/News_View.aspx?articleID=52 |archive-date=14 April 2009 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''ZZ416'' was the first Shadow R1 to be delivered in May 2009 to [[No. 5 Squadron RAF|No. V (AC) Squadron]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.militaryaircraftmarkings.co.uk/updates/MAMupdate49-2009.pdf |title=Military Aircraft Markings Update number 49, June 2009. |publisher=Military Aircraft Markings |access-date=28 February 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806181533/https://www.militaryaircraftmarkings.co.uk/updates/MAMupdate49-2009.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> A further Shadow was procured and delivered in December 2011.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://airforcesmonthly.keypublishing.com/2019/09/16/new-defensive-aids-for-raf-shadow-istar-fleet/ |title=New defensive aids for RAF Shadow ISTAR fleet |website=Air Forces Monthly |date=16 September 2019 |access-date=28 February 2020 |archive-date=28 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200228165251/https://airforcesmonthly.keypublishing.com/2019/09/16/new-defensive-aids-for-raf-shadow-istar-fleet/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Shadow fleet was transferred over to the newly reformed No. 14 Squadron in October 2011.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.raf.mod.uk/organisation/14squadron.cfm |title=14 Squadron |publisher=Royal Air Force |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202185125/http://www.raf.mod.uk/organisation/14squadron.cfm |archive-date=2 February 2017 |access-date=28 February 2020}}</ref> Following the 2015 SDSR, three more Shadows were ordered and the fleet was given an OSD of 2030.<ref name="SDSR2015">{{cite web|title=National Security Strategy and Strategic Defence and Security Review 2015|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124082813/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf|archive-date=24 November 2015|access-date=26 November 2015|website=gov.uk|publisher=HM Government}}</ref> Ten [[General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper|General Atomics MQ-9A Reaper]] unmanned aerial vehicles are operated by [[No. 13 Squadron RAF|No. XIII Squadron]] at RAF Waddington.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lincolnshire-22320275|title=Armed drones operated from RAF base in UK, says MoD|date=27 April 2013|work=BBC News|access-date=27 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130428014420/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lincolnshire-22320275|archive-date=28 April 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/no-39-squadron-standard-lodged-at-raf-cranwell-following-disbandment/ |title=No 39 Squadron standard lodged at RAF Cranwell following disbandment |website=Royal Air Force |date=28 February 2023 |access-date=28 April 2023}}</ref> Three [[Boeing RC-135|Boeing RC-135W Rivet Joint]]s (also known in RAF service as Airseeker) replaced the [[Hawker Siddeley Nimrod R1]] fleet in the [[signals intelligence]] role under the Airseeker Programme and are flown by [[No. 51 Squadron RAF|No. 51 Squadron]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/airseeker-rc-135w-rivet-joint/ |title=RC-135W Rivet Joint |publisher=Royal Air Force |access-date=28 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190324001323/https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/airseeker-rc-135w-rivet-joint/ |archive-date=24 March 2019 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Nimrod fleet was retired in 2011, the RAF co-manned aircraft of the US Air Force until the three RC-135s entered service between 2014 and 2017.<ref>{{cite news |title=Nimrod R1 aircraft in final flight for RAF |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13942014 |newspaper=BBC News |date=28 June 2011 |access-date=1 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110701115743/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13942014 |archive-date=1 July 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> The aircraft were [[Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker|Boeing KC-135R Stratotanker]] tankers converted to RC-135W standard in the most complex combined [[Foreign Military Sales]] case and co-operative support arrangement that the UK had undertaken with the [[United States Air Force]] since the Second World War.<ref>{{cite web |author=Ministry of Defence |url=http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/RivetJointJoinsFutureForce2020.htm |title=Rivet Joint joins Future Force 2020 |publisher=Mod.uk |date=22 December 2010 |access-date=13 September 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121019122630/http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/RivetJointJoinsFutureForce2020.htm |archive-date=19 October 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> The Rivet Joint received its first operational deployment in August 2014, when it was deployed to the Middle East to fly missions over [[Iraq]] and [[Syria]] as part of Operation Shader.<ref>{{cite news|title=Iraq: 'Secret' Surveillance Flights Revealed|url=http://news.sky.com/story/1319633/iraq-secret-surveillance-flights-revealed|access-date=29 December 2014|publisher=Sky News|date=16 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150128055914/http://news.sky.com/story/1319633/iraq-secret-surveillance-flights-revealed|archive-date=28 January 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> The RC-135W's OSD is 2035.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/uk-and-us-extend-rivet-joint-support-until-2035/ |title=UK and US extend Rivet Joint support until 2035 |publisher=Royal Air Force |date=26 October 2021 |access-date=27 October 2021 |archive-date=26 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026194239/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/uk-and-us-extend-rivet-joint-support-until-2035/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The General Atomics Protector RG1 is currently being introduced into RAF service, with operational flying scheduled to begin in 2025.<ref>{{cite web |first=Gareth |last=Jennings |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/ga-asi-delivers-first-protector-uav-to-uk |title=GA-ASI delivers first Protector UAV to UK |website=janes.com |date=2 October 2023 |access-date=14 November 2023}}</ref> On 5 October 2015, it was announced that the Scavenger programme had been replaced by "Protector", a new requirement for at least 20 [[unmanned aerial vehicle]]s.<ref name="Protector">{{cite news|title='Protector' UAV fleet to replace RAF Reapers|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/protector-uav-fleet-to-replace-raf-reapers-417391/|access-date=7 October 2015|agency=Flightglobal|date=5 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151008015040/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/protector-uav-fleet-to-replace-raf-reapers-417391/|archive-date=8 October 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> On 7 October 2015, it was revealed that Protector would be a [[Type certificate|certifiable]] derivative of the [[MQ-9 Reaper|MQ-9B SkyGuardian]] with enhanced range and endurance.<ref>{{cite news|title=MoD reveals Reaper derivative will be chosen for Protector|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/mod-reveals-reaper-derivative-will-be-chosen-for-pro-417509/|access-date=7 October 2015|agency=Flightglobal|date=7 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208080843/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/mod-reveals-reaper-derivative-will-be-chosen-for-pro-417509/|archive-date=8 December 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2016, it was indicated that at least sixteen aircraft would be purchased with a maximum of up to twenty-six.<ref>{{cite web |last=Stevenson |first=Beth |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/civil-uavs/us-approves-sale-of-up-to-26-protector-uavs-to-uk/122336.article |title=US approves sale of up to 26 Protector UAVs to UK | News |publisher=Flight Global |date=2016-11-18 |access-date=2020-05-25 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806130633/https://www.flightglobal.com/civil-uavs/us-approves-sale-of-up-to-26-protector-uavs-to-uk/122336.article |url-status=live }}</ref> In July 2018, a [[General Atomics]] US civil-registered SkyGuardian was flown from North Dakota to RAF Fairford for the [[Royal International Air Tattoo]] where it was given RAF markings. In July 2020, the Ministry of Defence signed a contract for three Protectors with an option on an additional thirteen aircraft.<ref>{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |title=MOD signs £65 million contract for Protector aircraft |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mod-signs-65-million-contract-for-protector-aircraft |work=UK Ministry of Defence |location=London |date=15 July 2020 |access-date=16 July 2020 |archive-date=14 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814095119/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mod-signs-65-million-contract-for-protector-aircraft |url-status=live }}</ref> The 2021 Defence Command Paper confirmed the order for 16 Protectors,<ref name="2021DCP"/> despite the fact that the 2015 SDSR originally laid out plans for more than 20.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2020/07/15/uk-orders-first-three-protector-drones-from-general-atomics/|title=UK orders first three Protector drones from General Atomics|date=15 July 2020|publisher=Defence News|access-date=7 December 2020|archive-date=15 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220215063625/https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2020/07/15/uk-orders-first-three-protector-drones-from-general-atomics/|url-status=live}}</ref> The first Protector RG1 (''PR009'') was delivered to RAF Waddington in September 2023.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/first-protector-aircraft-has-arrived-at-raf-waddington/ |title=First Protector aircraft has arrived at RAF Waddington |publisher=Royal Air Force |website=raf.mod.uk |date=23 October 2023 |access-date=14 November 2023}}</ref> [[No. 31 Squadron RAF|No. 31 Squadron]] was reformed as the first Protector squadron on 11 October 2023,<ref>{{cite web |first=Gareth |last=Jennings |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/raf-reconstitutes-31-squadron-as-new-protector-unit |title=RAF reconstitutes 31 Squadron as new Protector unit |website=janes.com |date=12 October 2023 |access-date=14 November 2023}}</ref> having been earmarked for the role in 2018.<ref>{{cite news|title=RAF announces new Typhoon, Protector squadrons|url=http://www.janes.com/article/81705/raf-announces-new-typhoon-protector-squadrons|access-date=13 July 2018|publisher=IHS Janes|date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712223031/http://www.janes.com/article/81705/raf-announces-new-typhoon-protector-squadrons|archive-date=12 July 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> Based at RAF Waddington, [[No. 54 Squadron RAF|No. 54 Squadron]] and [[No. 56 Squadron RAF|No. 56 Squadron]] act as the OCU and OEU for the ISTAR fleet respectively.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/squadrons/54-squadron/ |title=54 Squadron |publisher=Royal Air Force |website=raf.mod.uk |access-date=26 May 2020 |archive-date=13 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180713164646/https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/squadrons/54-squadron/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/squadrons/56-squadron/ |title=56 Squadron |publisher=Royal Air Force |website=raf.mod.uk |access-date=26 May 2020 |archive-date=23 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200423053803/https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/squadrons/56-squadron/ |url-status=live }}</ref> <gallery mode="packed"> File:RC-135W Rivet Joint MOD 45159809.jpg|[[Boeing RC-135|Airseeker R1]] File:Shadow R1 5(AC) Sqdn RAF Waddington this morning.jpg|[[Beechcraft Super King Air|Shadow R1]] File:Reaper UAV Takes to the Skies of Southern Afghanistan MOD 45151418.jpg|[[General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper|MQ-9A Reaper]] File:RIAT 2018 - Static display IMGP2662 (28679706407).jpg|[[General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper#Protector|Protector RG1]] </gallery> ===Maritime patrol=== [[File:First RAF Poseidon.jpg|thumb|right|[[Boeing P-8 Poseidon|Poseidon MRA1]]]] Nine [[Boeing P-8 Poseidon|Boeing Poseidon MRA1]]<ref>{{cite web |first=George |last=Allison |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/raf-announce-that-the-p-8a-maritime-patrol-aircraft-will-be-poseidon-mra-mk1-in-uk-service/ |title=RAF announce that the P-8A Maritime Patrol Aircraft will be 'Poseidon MRA Mk1' in UK service |website=UK Defence Journal |date=22 August 2018 |access-date=22 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190322113648/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/raf-announce-that-the-p-8a-maritime-patrol-aircraft-will-be-poseidon-mra-mk1-in-uk-service/ |archive-date=22 March 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> were ordered by the [[British government]] in November 2015 in its [[Strategic Defence and Security Review 2015|Strategic Defence and Security Review]] for surveillance, anti-submarine and anti-surface ship warfare, filling a capability gap in maritime patrol that had been left since the cancellation of the [[BAE Systems Nimrod MRA4]] programme in the 2010 SDSR.<ref>{{cite news|title=Defence review: Main developments at a glance|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-34897803|access-date=23 November 2015|work=BBC News|date=23 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124050502/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-34897803|archive-date=24 November 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> On 13 July 2017, it was announced that [[No. 120 Squadron RAF|No. 120 Squadron]] and [[No. 201 Squadron RAF|No. 201 Squadron]], both former [[Hawker Siddeley Nimrod|Nimrod MR2]] squadrons, would operate the Poseidon and be based at RAF Lossiemouth.<ref name="Poseidon">{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/defence-secretary-announces-new-maritime-patrol-aircraft-squadrons |title=Defence Secretary announces new Maritime Patrol Aircraft squadrons |publisher=Ministry of Defence |website=mod.uk |date=13 July 2017 |access-date=10 February 2020 |archive-date=13 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170713151059/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/defence-secretary-announces-new-maritime-patrol-aircraft-squadrons |url-status=live }}</ref> No. 120 Squadron was stood up on 1 April 2018,<ref name="Poseidon" /> with No. 201 Squadron reforming on 7 August 2021.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-guernsey-59001533 |title=RAF 201 Squadron reclaims standard from Guernsey |website=BBC News |date=22 October 2021 |access-date=26 October 2021 |archive-date=26 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026154138/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-guernsey-59001533 |url-status=live }}</ref> No. 54 Squadron was the OCU for the Poseidon fleet between 2020 and 2023.<ref name="P8Lossie">{{cite web |first=Dan |last=Chorley |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-lossiemouth/news/raf-poseidon-mra1-arrives-at-raf-lossiemouth-for-the-first-time |title=RAF Poseidon MRA1 arrives at RAF Lossiemouth for the first time |publisher=Royal Air Force |date=13 October 2020 |access-date=2 February 2021 |archive-date=7 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210207101510/https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-lossiemouth/news/raf-poseidon-mra1-arrives-at-raf-lossiemouth-for-the-first-time |url-status=live }}</ref> [[No. 42 Squadron RAF|No. 42 (Torpedo Bomber) Squadron]] has been the OCU for the Poseidon since September 2023.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://raf.mod.uk/news/articles/number-42-squadron-reforms-at-raf-lossiemouth/ |title=Number 42 Squadron reforms at RAF Lossiemouth |publisher=Royal Air Force |date= 1 November 2023 |access-date=1 November 2023}}</ref> The first production Poseidon MRA1 ''ZP801'' made its initial flight on 13 July 2019.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/poseidon-the-uks-new-maritime-patrol-aircraft-takes-to-the-skies/ |title=Poseidon, The UK'S New Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Takes to the Skies |publisher=Royal Air Force |date=13 July 2019 |access-date=14 July 2019 |archive-date=13 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190713192507/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/poseidon-the-uks-new-maritime-patrol-aircraft-takes-to-the-skies/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''ZP801'' arrived at [[Kinloss Barracks]], the former home of the Nimrod, on 4 February 2020, filling a decade long gap in maritime capability.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/new-poseidon-maritime-patrol-aircraft-lands-in-uk-for-first-time/ |title=New Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft lands in UK for first time |publisher=Royal Air Force |website=raf.mod.uk |date=4 February 2020 |access-date=10 February 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200204165359/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/new-poseidon-maritime-patrol-aircraft-lands-in-uk-for-first-time/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Poseidon was declared combat ready in April 2020.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/raf-declare-poseidon-an-initial-operating-capability/ |title=RAF Declare Poseidon an Initial Operating Capability |publisher=Royal Air Force |date=3 April 2020 |access-date=15 October 2020 |archive-date=2 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201102024915/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/raf-declare-poseidon-an-initial-operating-capability/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Poseidon carried out its first operational mission on 3 August 2020, when the Russian warship ''[[Russian patrol boat Vasily Bykov|Vasily Bykov]]'' was tracked.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/first-operation-for-raf-poseidon-tracking-russian-warship/ |title=First Operation for RAF Poseidon tracking Russian Warship |publisher=Royal Air Force |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=2 February 2021 |archive-date=16 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210116004229/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/first-operation-for-raf-poseidon-tracking-russian-warship/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A Poseidon MRA1 arrived at RAF Lossiemouth for the first time in October 2020.<ref name="P8Lossie" /> The ninth, and final Poseidon arrived at RAF Lossiemouth on 11 January 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/final-p-8-poseidon-maritime-patrol-aircraft-arrives-in-scotland/|title=Final P-8 Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft arrives in Scotland|first=George|last=Allison|date=11 January 2022|access-date=27 January 2022|archive-date=11 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220111222229/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/final-p-8-poseidon-maritime-patrol-aircraft-arrives-in-scotland/|url-status=live}}</ref> ===Air mobility=== {{Further|AirTanker Services}} [[No. 99 Squadron RAF|No. 99 Squadron]] operate eight [[C-17 Globemaster III|Boeing C-17A Globemaster III]] in the heavy strategic airlift role from [[RAF Brize Norton]], Oxfordshire. Four C-17A were originally leased from [[Boeing]] in 2000,<ref>{{cite web |first=Roland |last=Gribben |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/4460454/MoD-embarrassed-at-cost-of-Boeing-C-17-lease-deal.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/4460454/MoD-embarrassed-at-cost-of-Boeing-C-17-lease-deal.html |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |title=MoD 'embarrassed' at cost of Boeing C-17 lease deal |newspaper=The Telegraph |date=31 July 2000 |access-date=15 October 2020}}{{cbignore}}</ref> These four were subsequently purchased outright,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/review-turns-up-the-heat-on-eurofighter/56167.article |title=Review turns up the heat on eurofighter |website=FlightGlobal |date=22 July 2004 |access-date=15 October 2020 |archive-date=2 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200802043800/https://www.flightglobal.com/review-turns-up-the-heat-on-eurofighter/56167.article |url-status=live }}</ref> followed by a fifth delivered on 7 April 2008 and a sixth delivered on 11 June 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2008/q2/080611c_nr.html |title=Boeing Delivers 6th C-17 to Royal Air Force |website=Boeing |date=11 June 2008 |access-date=15 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080617105332/http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2008/q2/080611c_nr.html |archive-date=17 June 2008}}</ref> The MOD said there was "a stated departmental requirement for eight" C-17s and a seventh was subsequently ordered, to be delivered in December 2010.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indiandefencereview.com/news/boeing-delivers-uk-royal-air-forces-7th-c-17-globemaster-iii/|title=Boeing Delivers UK Royal Air Force's 7th C-17 Globemaster III|date=17 November 2010|newspaper=Indian Defence Review|access-date=18 December 2022}}</ref> In February 2012 the purchase of an eighth C-17 was confirmed;<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-to-buy-eighth-c-17-transport-367960/ |title=UK to buy eighth C-17 transport |work=Flight International |date=8 February 2012 |access-date=9 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120213095909/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-to-buy-eighth-c-17-transport-367960/ |archive-date=13 February 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> the aircraft arrived at RAF Brize Norton in May 2012.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-raf-c-17-aircraft-touches-down-in-the-uk |title=New RAF C-17 aircraft touches down in the UK |date=24 May 2012 |publisher=Ministry of Defence |access-date=12 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140309174715/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-raf-c-17-aircraft-touches-down-in-the-uk |archive-date=9 March 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> The [[Airbus A400M Atlas|Airbus Atlas C1]] (A400M) replaced the RAF's fleet of C-130 Hercules, initially replacing the C1/C3 (C-130K) which were withdrawn from use on 28 October 2013, having originally entered service in 1967.<ref name="Hercules">{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/hercules-c130j// |title=C-130J Hercules |publisher=Royal Air Force |access-date=3 December 2020 |archive-date=18 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201118180550/https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/hercules-c130j/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Based at RAF Brize Norton, the Atlas fleet is operated by [[No. 30 Squadron RAF|No. 30 Squadron]] and [[No. 70 Squadron RAF|No. LXX Squadron]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/atlas-c1-a400m/ |title=Atlas C.1 (A400M) |publisher=Royal Air Force |access-date=3 December 2020 |archive-date=12 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112024322/https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/atlas-c1-a400m/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The first Atlas C1 (''ZM400'') was delivered to the RAF in November 2014.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/first-uk-a400m-atlas-delivered-to-the-raf |title=First UK A400M Atlas delivered to the RAF |publisher=Ministry of Defence |website=gov.uk |date=27 November 2014 |access-date=11 December 2020 |archive-date=19 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210519200648/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/first-uk-a400m-atlas-delivered-to-the-raf |url-status=live }}</ref> Originally, twenty-five A400Ms were ordered in the initial batch; the total initial purchase then dropped to twenty-two.<ref>{{cite web|access-date=14 April 2010 |publisher=Ministry of Defence |title=MOD signs contracts and agreements for new RAF aircraft and weapons |url=http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/ModSignsContractsAndAgreementsForNewRafAircraftAndWeapons.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100402093416/http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/ModSignsContractsAndAgreementsForNewRafAircraftAndWeapons.htm |archive-date=2 April 2010 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2017-07-12/4690|title=Hercules Aircraft: Written question – 4690|date=21 July 2017|website=UK Parliament|access-date=30 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170730223240/http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2017-07-12/4690|archive-date=30 July 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> The final aircraft in the initial order of 22 aircraft was delivered in May 2023.<ref name="auto2">{{Cite web |title=New Atlas transport aircraft delivered to UK |website=UK Defence Journal |last=Dunlop |first=Tom |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/new-atlas-transport-aircraft-delivered-to-uk/ |date=22 May 2023}}</ref> In February 2023, the Chief of the Air Staff indicated that up to six additional aircraft were planned for delivery by 2030.<ref name="WOTC">{{Cite web |title=Oral evidence: Work of the Chief of the Air Staff, HC 1108 |url=https://committees.parliament.uk/oralevidence/12649/html/ |date=1 February 2023}}</ref> The C-130J Hercules was retired from RAF service on 30 June 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |date=8 June 2023 |title=Number 47 Squadron Mark the End of an Era with a Royal Parade |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-brize-norton/news/number-47-squadron-mark-the-end-of-an-era-with-a-royal-parade/ |access-date=1 July 2023 |website=Royal Air Force}}</ref> [[No. 24 Squadron RAF|No. XXIV Squadron]] acts as the Air Mobility OCU (AMOCU) for the Globemaster and Atlas,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/squadrons/xxiv-squadron/ |title=XXIV Squadron |publisher=Royal Air Force |access-date=3 December 2020 |archive-date=24 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210124160035/https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/squadrons/xxiv-squadron/ |url-status=live }}</ref> while [[No. 206 Squadron RAF|No. 206 Squadron]] is the OEU.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/squadrons/206-squadron/ |title=206 Squadron |publisher=Royal Air Force |access-date=3 December 2020 |archive-date=4 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201104104359/https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/squadrons/206-squadron/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Air transport tasks are also carried out by the [[Airbus A330 MRTT|Airbus Voyager KC2/3]], flown by [[No. 10 Squadron RAF|No. 10 Squadron]] and [[No. 101 Squadron RAF|No. 101 Squadron]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/voyager/ |title=Voyager |publisher=Royal Air Force |access-date=15 October 2020 |archive-date=10 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201110052005/https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/voyager/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The first Voyager (''ZZ330'') arrived in the UK for testing at [[MoD Boscombe Down|MOD Boscombe Down]] in April 2011,<ref>{{cite news |title=Voyager, biggest plane in RAF history, arrives in UK |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13125047 |newspaper=BBC News |date=19 April 2011 |access-date=20 April 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110420125115/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13125047 |archive-date=20 April 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> and entered service in April 2012.<ref>{{cite web |title=Airbus Military's A330 MRTT begins its service career with the UK Royal Air Force |url=http://www.airbus.com/newsevents/news-events-single/detail/airbus-militarys-a330-mrtt-begins-its-service-career-with-the-uk-royal-air-force/ |publisher=Airbus |date=9 April 2012 |access-date=12 June 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131113183452/http://www.airbus.com/newsevents/news-events-single/detail/airbus-militarys-a330-mrtt-begins-its-service-career-with-the-uk-royal-air-force/ |archive-date=13 November 2013 }}</ref> The Voyager received approval from the MOD on 16 May 2013 to begin air-to-air refuelling flights and made its first operational tanker flight on 20 May 2013 as part of a training sortie with Tornado GR4s. By 21 May 2013, the Voyager fleet had carried over 50,000 passengers and carried over 3,000 tons of cargo.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/raf-voyager-launches-tanker-operations-with-tornado-386178/ |title=RAF Voyager launches tanker operations with Tornado |last=Hoyle |first=Craig |date=21 May 2013 |newspaper=Flight International |access-date=12 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130609095614/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/raf-voyager-launches-tanker-operations-with-tornado-386178/ |archive-date=9 June 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> A total of fourteen Voyagers form the fleet, with nine allocated to sole RAF use (three KC2s and six KC3s).<ref>{{cite book |last1=Curtis |first1=Howard J. |title=Military Aircraft Markings |date=2019 |publisher=Crécy Publishing Ltd. |location=Manchester |isbn=978-1-91080-925-9 |page=93 |url=https://www.militaryaircraftmarkings.co.uk/ |access-date=11 February 2020 |archive-date=27 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200727083255/https://www.militaryaircraftmarkings.co.uk/ |url-status=live }}</ref> As the Voyagers lack a [[Refueling boom|refuelling boom]], the RAF has requested a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the [[United States Air Force|USAF]] allowing the UK access to tankers equipped with refuelling booms for its [[Boeing RC-135|RC-135W Rivet Joint]] .<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=/article-xml/awx_07_05_2013_p0-593999.xml |title=RAF, USAF Work on Rivet Joint Refueling Deal. |publisher=Aviationweek.com |date=5 July 2013 |access-date=13 September 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131114001641/http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=%2Farticle-xml%2Fawx_07_05_2013_p0-593999.xml |archive-date=14 November 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> Two [[Dassault Falcon 900|Dassault Falcon 900XL]]s were procured in early 2022 to replace the RAF's fleet of four [[British Aerospace 146|BAe 146]]s (two CC2s and two C3s) in the Command Support Air Transport role.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://des.mod.uk/aircraft-international-presence/ |title=DE&S procure new aircraft to enhance UK's international presence |website=Defence Equipment and Support |date=8 February 2022 |access-date=28 April 2023}}</ref> Known as the Envoy IV CC1 in British service, the aircraft are based at [[RAF Northolt]] and are operated by a mixed civilian and [[No. 32 Squadron RAF|No. 32 (The Royal) Squadron]] crew. This arrangement will remain until 2026 when the fleet will be placed on the [[United Kingdom military aircraft registration number|military register]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/latest-aircraft-into-raf-fleet-to-be-named-envoy-iv/ |title=Latest aircraft into RAF fleet to be named Envoy IV |website=Royal Air Force |date=18 May 2022 |access-date=28 April 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.centreline.aero/centreline-extend-csat-contract-with-ministry-of-defence/ |title=Centreline Extend CSAT Contract with Ministry of Defence |website=Centreline |date=28 November 2023 |access-date=15 August 2024}}</ref> <gallery mode="packed"> File:C17 Transport Aircraft Taking Off from RAF Brize Norton MOD 45156519.jpg|[[C-17 Globemaster III|C-17A Globemaster III]] File:RAF A400M Lands at RAF Brize Norton.jpg|[[Airbus A400M Atlas|Atlas C1 (A400M)]] File:Royal Air Force, ZZ330, Airbus KC2 Voyager (42524680970).jpg|[[Airbus A330 MRTT|Voyager KC2 (A330 MRTT)]] File:G-ZAHS, Envoy IV CC1 (Dassault Falcon 900LX) of 32 Sqn RAF at RAF Northolt, in its 'Global Britain' livery - 2022-12-06-1247-01.jpg|[[Dassault Falcon 900|Envoy IV CC1]] </gallery> ===Helicopters=== [[File:18 SQUADRON MOUNTAIN TRAINING MOD 45166840.jpg|thumb|[[Boeing Chinook (UK variants)|Boeing Chinook HC6A]]]] RAF helicopters support the [[British Army]] by moving troops and equipment to and around the battlefield. Helicopters are also used in a variety of other roles, including in support of RAF ground units and heavy-lift support for the [[Royal Marines]]. The support helicopters are organised into the tri-service [[Joint Aviation Command]] (JAC), along with helicopters from the British Army and [[Royal Navy]].<ref>{{cite web|date=1 July 1998|title=Strategic Defence Review|url=http://fissilematerials.org/library/mod98.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160419022006/http://fissilematerials.org/library/mod98.pdf|archive-date=19 April 2016|access-date=30 December 2017|publisher=Ministry of Defence}}</ref> [[No. 22 Squadron RAF|No. 22 Squadron]], based at [[RAF Benson]], is the OEU for JAC.<ref>{{cite web|date=14 May 2020|title=22 Squadron Re-Forms At RAF Benson|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/22-squadron-re-forms-at-raf-benson|access-date=26 May 2020|publisher=Royal Air Force|archive-date=28 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200728115950/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/22-squadron-re-forms-at-raf-benson|url-status=live}}</ref> The large twin-rotor [[Boeing Chinook (UK variants)|Boeing Chinook]] is the RAF's heavy-lift support helicopter.<ref>{{cite web|last=Baldwin|first=Harriett|date=7 December 2017|title=Chinook Helicopters: Written question – 116751|url=http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2017-11-30/116751/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171211053234/http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2017-11-30/116751/|archive-date=11 December 2017|access-date=10 December 2017|website=UK Parliament}}</ref> Originally ordered in 1978,<ref>{{cite web|date=9 February 1978|title=Boeing Unit to Make Helicopters for U. K. In $200 Million Job|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/djreprints/access/71581033.html?dids=71581033:71581033&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:AI&type=historic&date=Feb+09%2C+1978&author=&pub=Wall+Street+Journal&desc=Boeing+Unit+to+Make+Helicopters+for+U.+K.+In+%24200+Million+Job&pqatl=google|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110605030347/https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/djreprints/access/71581033.html?dids=71581033:71581033&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:AI&type=historic&date=Feb+09%2C+1978&author=&pub=Wall+Street+Journal&desc=Boeing+Unit+to+Make+Helicopters+for+U.+K.+In+%24200+Million+Job&pqatl=google|archive-date=5 June 2011|access-date=26 May 2020|newspaper=The Wall Street Journal}}</ref> with subsequent orders in 1995,<ref>{{cite web|date=10 March 1995|title=Company News; Boeing and Westland Split British Helicopter Order |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/03/10/business/company-news-boeing-and-westland-split-british-helicopter-order.html|access-date=26 May 2020|newspaper=The New York Times|archive-date=3 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200903200856/https://www.nytimes.com/1995/03/10/business/company-news-boeing-and-westland-split-british-helicopter-order.html|url-status=live}}</ref> 2011,<ref>{{cite web|date=16 June 2014|title=RAF flying high in new Chinook helicopters|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/raf-flying-high-in-new-chinook-helicopters|access-date=26 May 2020|website=gov.uk|publisher=Ministry of Defence|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806143053/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/raf-flying-high-in-new-chinook-helicopters|url-status=live}}</ref> and 2018 (yet to be finalised),<ref>{{cite web|date=19 October 2018|title=United Kingdom – H-47 Chinook (Extended Range) Helicopters and Accessories|url=http://dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/united-kingdom-h-47-chinook-extended-range-helicopters-and-accessories|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200409005317/https://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/united-kingdom-h-47-chinook-extended-range-helicopters-and-accessories|archive-date=9 April 2020|access-date=26 May 2020|publisher=United States Defense Security Cooperation Agency}}</ref> the Chinook is operated by [[No. 7 Squadron RAF|No. 7 Squadron]], [[No. 18 Squadron RAF|No. 18 (B) Squadron]] and [[No. 27 Squadron RAF|No. 27 Squadron]] at [[RAF Odiham]] and [[No. 28 Squadron RAF|No. 28 (AC) Squadron]] (Support Helicopter OCU) at RAF Benson.<ref name="Chinook">{{cite web|title=Chinook|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/chinook/|access-date=26 May 2020|publisher=Royal Air Force|archive-date=24 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424223609/https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/chinook/|url-status=live}}</ref> Since being first delivered in 1980,<ref>{{cite web|date=22 November 2020|title=Chinook arrival with Royal Air Force remembered|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/chinook-arrival-with-royal-air-force-remembered/|access-date=23 November 2020|publisher=Royal Air Force|archive-date=22 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201122102501/http://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/chinook-arrival-with-royal-air-force-remembered//|url-status=live}}</ref> the Chinook has been involved in numerous operations: the Falklands War (1982); [[Operation Granby]] (1991); [[NATO bombing of Yugoslavia|Operation Engadine]] (1999); [[Operation Barras]] (2000); [[Operation Herrick]] (2002–2014); [[Operation Telic]] (2003–2011); [[Operation RUMAN|Operation Ruman]] (2017); and [[Operation Barkhane|Operation Newcombe]] (2018–2022).<ref name="Chinook"/><ref>{{cite web|date=24 March 2020|title=RAF Squadrons Receive Battle Honours from Her Majesty The Queen|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/raf-squadrons-receive-battle-honours-from-her-majesty-the-queen/|access-date=26 May 2020|publisher=Royal Air Force|archive-date=26 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326095235/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/raf-squadrons-receive-battle-honours-from-her-majesty-the-queen/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Hurricane Irma Relief|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/what-we-do/overview/hurricane-irma-relief/|access-date=26 May 2020|publisher=Royal Air Force|archive-date=11 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200811160957/https://www.raf.mod.uk/what-we-do/overview/hurricane-irma-relief/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|last=Tanguy|first=Jean-Marc|date=June 2020|title=Airlifters in Africa|magazine=Air Forces Monthly|publisher=Key Publishing Ltd.|pages=54–57}}</ref> The 60-strong fleet of Chinooks currently has an OSD in the 2040s.<ref>{{cite web|date=10 December 2015|title=Final new-build Chinook HC6s delivered to UK RAF|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/final-new-build-chinook-hc6s-delivered-to-uk-raf-419948/|access-date=26 May 2020|website=Flight Global|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304072917/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/final-new-build-chinook-hc6s-delivered-to-uk-raf-419948/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Baldwin|first=Harriett|date=7 December 2017|title=Chinook Helicopters: Written question – 116751|url=http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2017-11-30/116751/|access-date=26 May 2020|publisher=UK Parliament|archive-date=11 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171211053234/http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2017-11-30/116751/|url-status=live}}</ref> ===Training aircraft=== {{main|UK Military Flying Training System}} The UK's military flying training has been privatised through a [[Public–private partnership|public-private partnership]], known as the [[UK Military Flying Training System]] (UKMFTS). Training is provided by [[Ascent Flight Training]], a consortium of [[Lockheed Martin]] and [[Babcock International]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ascent Flight Training|url=https://ascentflighttraining.com/|access-date=3 January 2020|website=ascentflighttraining.com|language=en-US|archive-date=15 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215230742/https://ascentflighttraining.com/|url-status=live}}</ref> New aircraft were procured to reduce the training gap between the older generation [[Grob G 115|Grob Tutor T1]], [[Short Tucano|Short Tucano T1]] and [[Beechcraft King Air|Beechcraft King Air T1]] aircraft, and the RAF's modern front-line aircraft, including advanced systems and [[glass cockpit]]s. UKMFTS also relies far more on [[Flight simulator|synthetic training]] to prepare aircrew for the front line, where advanced synthetic training is commonplace.<ref>{{cite web|title=UKMFTS Fixed Wing Aircraft Service Provision Contract Awarded|url=http://aerossurance.com/design/ukmfts-fw-asp-contract-award/|website=Aerossurance|date=2 February 2016|access-date=3 January 2021|archive-date=17 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817124601/http://aerossurance.com/design/ukmfts-fw-asp-contract-award/|url-status=live}}</ref> ====Initial training==== The Grob Tutor T1 equips fifteen [[University Air Squadron]]s, which provide university students an opportunity to undertake an RAF training syllabus, which includes first solo, as well as air navigation, aerobatics and formation flying. These units are co-located with [[Air Experience Flight]]s, which share the same aircraft and facilities and provide air experience flying to the [[Air Training Corps]] and [[Combined Cadet Force]]. The Tutor is also flown by [[No. 16 Squadron RAF|No. 16 Squadron]] and [[No. 115 Squadron RAF|No. 115 Squadron]] based at RAF Wittering.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Tutor T1|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/|access-date=3 January 2020|website=Royal Air Force|language=en-gb|archive-date=10 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170910172607/https://www.raf.mod.uk/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Volunteer Gliding Squadron]]s also provide air experience flying to cadets using the [[Grob G103a Twin II|Grob Viking T1]] conventional glider. Due to an airworthiness issue in April 2014, the Viking fleet and the [[Grob G109|Grob Vigilant T1]] fleet were grounded for a two-year period, although Viking operations have subsequently resumed.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Brown|first1=David|date=11 May 2018|title=RAF grounds its training gliders over safety fears|page=4|work=The Times|issue=72532|issn=0140-0460}}</ref> The Vigilant was unexpectedly withdrawn from service in May 2018, a year earlier than planned. A contract tender was initiated in February 2018 to replace this capability from 2022 onwards.<ref>{{cite web|title=Fixed-wing Light Aircraft Training System – Contracts Finder|url=https://www.contractsfinder.service.gov.uk/Notice/7d0a3080-5b1c-4223-88b7-660c9488eb61?p=@8=UFQxUlRRPT0=NjJNT0|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116114055/https://www.contractsfinder.service.gov.uk/Notice/7d0a3080-5b1c-4223-88b7-660c9488eb61?p=@8=UFQxUlRRPT0=NjJNT0|archive-date=16 November 2018|access-date=2018-02-26|publisher=Contractsfinder.service.gov.uk}}</ref> ==== Elementary training ==== The [[Grob G 120TP|Grob Prefect T1]] was introduced to RAF service in 2016 as its elementary trainer. The 23-strong fleet is based at RAF Cranwell and RAF Barkston Heath in Lincolnshire where they are operated by [[No. 57 Squadron RAF|No. 57 Squadron]]. On completion of elementary training, aircrew are then streamed to either fast jet, multi-engine, or rotary training.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Prefect T1|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/|access-date=3 January 2020|website=Royal Air Force|language=en-gb|archive-date=10 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170910172607/https://www.raf.mod.uk/|url-status=live}}</ref> ==== Basic fast jet training ==== Basic fast jet training is provided on the [[Beechcraft T-6 Texan II|Beechcraft Texan T1]], which replaced the Short Tucano T1 in November 2019. The Texan is a tandem-seat [[turboprop]] aircraft, featuring a digital [[glass cockpit]]. It is operated by [[No. 72 Squadron RAF|No. 72 (F) Squadron]] based at [[RAF Valley]] in [[Anglesey]] which provides lead-in training for RAF and Royal Navy fighter pilots prior to advanced training on the [[BAE Systems Hawk|BAE Hawk T2]]. The first two Texans were delivered in February 2018 and by December 2018 ten aircraft had arrived at RAF Valley.<ref name="afm361">{{cite journal|date=April 2018|title=First T-6C Texan IIs arrive at Valley|journal=Air Forces Monthly|issue=361|page=8}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Cone|first=Allen|date=22 February 2019|title=Britain tests Texan T1 training aircraft for first time|url=https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2019/02/22/Britain-tests-Texan-T1-training-aircraft-for-first-time/6721550845337/|access-date=18 November 2020|website=United Press International|archive-date=8 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108021221/https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2019/02/22/Britain-tests-Texan-T1-training-aircraft-for-first-time/6721550845337/|url-status=live}}</ref> Four additional Texans were delivered on 3 November 2020.<ref>{{cite web|date=3 November 2020|title=Four new Texan aircraft arrive at RAF Valley|url=https://www.affinityfts.co.uk/affinity-take-delivery-of-four-new-texan-aircraft/|access-date=18 November 2020|website=Affinity Flying Training Services|archive-date=4 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201204054532/https://www.affinityfts.co.uk/affinity-take-delivery-of-four-new-texan-aircraft/|url-status=live}}</ref> ===Advanced fast jet training=== The BAE Hawk T2 is flown by [[No. 4 Squadron RAF|No. IV Squadron]] and [[No. 25 Squadron RAF|No. XXV (F) Squadron]] based at RAF Valley. The latter provides initial Advanced Fast Jet Training (AFJT), while pilots who graduate on to the former squadron learn tactical and weapons training.<ref>{{cite web|title=XXV (F) SQUADRON|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/squadrons/xxv-f-squadron/|access-date=15 October 2020|publisher=Royal Air Force|archive-date=19 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201019023529/https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/squadrons/xxv-f-squadron/|url-status=live}}</ref> After advanced training aircrew go on to an [[Operational Conversion Unit]] (OCU) where they are trained to fly either the Typhoon FGR4 ([[No. 29 Squadron RAF|No. 29 Squadron]] at RAF Coningsby) or F-35B Lightning ([[No. 207 Squadron RAF|No. 207 Squadron]] at RAF Marham) in preparation for service with a front-line squadron. The OCUs use operational aircraft alongside [[flight simulator|simulator]]s and ground training, although in the case of the Typhoon a two-seater training variant exists which is designated the Typhoon T3.<ref>{{cite web|title=Operational conversion|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/organisation/operationalconversion.cfm|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180101135332/https://www.raf.mod.uk/organisation/operationalconversion.cfm|archive-date=1 January 2018|access-date=31 December 2017|publisher=RAF}}</ref> On 15 October 2020, it was announced a joint RAF-Qatari Air Force Hawk squadron (similar to [[No. 12 Squadron RAF|No. 12 Squadron]]) would be formed in the future.<ref>{{cite web|title=Second joint RAF & Qatari air force squadron intended for UK|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/second-joint-raf-qatari-air-force-squadron-intended-for-uk/|access-date=16 October 2020|publisher=Royal Air Force|archive-date=17 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201017084035/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/second-joint-raf-qatari-air-force-squadron-intended-for-uk/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 1 April 2021, it was further elaborated that this squadron would be stood up in September 2021 at [[RAF Leeming]], North Yorkshire.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/royal-air-force-and-qatar-emiri-air-force-expand-defence-partnership/ |title=Royal Air Force and Qatar Emiri Air Force Expand Defence Partnership |publisher=Royal Air Force |date=1 April 2021 |access-date=1 April 2021 |archive-date=1 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210401172455/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/royal-air-force-and-qatar-emiri-air-force-expand-defence-partnership/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Joint Hawk Training Squadron received its first two Hawk Mk.167s at RAF Leeming on 1 September 2021.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/raf-leeming-welcomes-first-qatari-hawks/ |title=RAF Leeming welcomes first Qatari Hawks |publisher=Royal Air Force |date=2 September 2021 |access-date=27 October 2021 |archive-date=27 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027220429/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/raf-leeming-welcomes-first-qatari-hawks/ |url-status=live }}</ref> On 24 November 2021, the Joint Hawk Training Squadron became [[11 Squadron (Qatar)|11 Squadron QEAF]] when it reformed at RAF Leeming.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/new-joint-hawk-squadron-unveiled-during-reformation-event-at-raf-leeming/ |title=New Joint Hawk Squadron unveiled during Reformation Event at RAF Leeming |publisher=Royal Air Force |date=24 November 2021 |access-date=4 April 2022}}</ref> ===Multi-engine training=== Multi-Engine aircrew, weapon systems officer (WSO) and weapon systems operator (WSOp) students are trained on the [[Embraer Phenom 100|Embraer Phenom T1]]. It is operated by [[No. 45 Squadron RAF|No. 45 Squadron]] based at RAF Cranwell. Multi-engine aircrew then go to their Operational Conversion Unit or front-line squadron.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Phenom T1|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/|access-date=3 January 2020|website=Royal Air Force|language=en-gb|archive-date=10 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170910172607/https://www.raf.mod.uk/|url-status=live}}</ref> <gallery mode="packed"> File:Royal Air Force Grob G-103A Viking TX1 Lofting-1.jpg|[[Grob G103a Twin II|Viking T1]] File:Grob G 115E EA-3.JPG|[[Grob Tutor|Tutor T1]] File:EGVA - Grob G120TP Prefect T1 - Royal Air Force - ZM307 (48385816261).jpg|[[Grob G 120TP|Prefect T1]] File:Hawker Beechcraft T-6C Texan II N2824B (35871033230).jpg|[[Beechcraft T-6 Texan II|Texan T1]] File:RAF BAE Systems Hawk T2 Lofting-1.jpg|[[BAE Hawk|Hawk T2]] File:EGVA - Embraer 500 Phenom 100 - Royal Air Force - ZM335 (48385967192).jpg|[[Embraer Phenom 100|Phenom T1]] File:Eurofighter Typhoon T.3 ‘ZK382 - BG’ (30750294326).jpg|[[Eurofighter Typhoon|Typhoon T3]] </gallery> ====Rotary==== [[No. 1 Flying Training School RAF|No. 1 Flying Training School]] (No. 1 FTS) (formerly the [[Defence Helicopter Flying School]]) is based at RAF Shawbury in Shropshire and provides basic helicopter pilot training for all UK armed forces. It flies twenty-nine [[Eurocopter EC135|Airbus Juno HT1]]. No. 1 FTS comprises two main elements, 2 Maritime Air Wing (2 MAW) and No. 9 Regiment.<ref name=":02">{{Cite journal|last=Dufton|first=Lieutenant Colonel Jon|date=2018|title=Foreword|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-shawbury/documents/raf-shawbury-aries-magazine-edition-3-2018/|journal=Aries|volume=3|pages=4–5|access-date=3 January 2021|archive-date=23 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723003739/https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-shawbury/documents/raf-shawbury-aries-magazine-edition-3-2018/|url-status=dead}}</ref> 2 MAW includes [[No. 660 Squadron AAC|No. 660 Squadron]] of the [[Army Air Corps (United Kingdom)|Army Air Corps]] (AAC) and [[705 Naval Air Squadron]] and provide basic helicopter flying training. No. 9 Regiment comprises [[No. 60 Squadron RAF|No. 60 Squadron]] of the RAF and [[No. 670 Squadron RAF|No. 670 Squadron]] of the AAC in the advanced helicopter flying training. [[No. 202 Squadron RAF|No. 202 Squadron]] is also part of No. 1 FTS and operates the [[Eurocopter EC145|Airbus Jupiter HT1]] at RAF Valley.<ref>{{cite web|date=11 July 2018|title=202 Sqn Jupiter HT1 positioning for RAF100 flypast|url=http://www.202-sqn-assoc.co.uk/winter%202018.pdf|access-date=30 June 2019|publisher=202 Squadron Association|archive-date=17 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817071911/http://www.202-sqn-assoc.co.uk/winter%202018.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> <gallery mode="packed"> File:2019 Royal International Air Tattoo 1P4A8375 (48387276351).jpg|[[Eurocopter EC135|Juno HT1]] File:H-145 Jupiter - RIAT 2018 (41932985800).jpg|[[Eurocopter EC145|Jupiter HT1]] </gallery> ===Future aircraft=== {{See also|Future of the Royal Air Force}} [[File:RAF Wedgetail in flight.jpg|thumb|A Boeing E-7 Wedgetail of the Royal Air Force (November 2024)]] In July 2014, the House of Commons [[Defence Select Committee]] released a report on the RAF future force structure that envisaged a mixture of unmanned and manned platforms, including further F-35, Protector RG1, a service life extension for the Typhoon (which would otherwise end its service in 2030) or a possible new manned aircraft.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/article/41309/uk-sets-out-post-2030-combat-aviation-force-structure|title=UK sets out post-2030 combat aviation force structure|publisher=Janes|date=29 July 2014|access-date=10 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140820072232/http://www.janes.com/article/41309/uk-sets-out-post-2030-combat-aviation-force-structure|archive-date=20 August 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> In July 2018, at the [[Farnborough Airshow]], the Defence Secretary announced a £2bn investment for BAE Systems, [[MBDA]] and [[Leonardo (company)|Leonardo]] to develop a new British 6th Generation Fighter to replace Typhoon in 2035 under [[BAE Systems Tempest|Project Tempest]].<ref>{{cite news |author=Callum Jones |url=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/defence/article/raf-unveils-2bn-plan-for-new-tempest-fighter-jet-and-it-has-lasers-8rxvjxkx0 |title=RAF unveils £2bn plan for new Tempest fighter jet (and it has lasers) | News |newspaper=The Times |access-date=2018-07-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180717154220/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/raf-unveils-2bn-plan-for-new-tempest-fighter-jet-and-it-has-lasers-8rxvjxkx0 |archive-date=17 July 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref> On 22 March 2019, the defence secretary announced the UK had signed a $1.98 billion deal to procure five [[Boeing 737 AEW&C|Boeing E-7 Wedgetail]]s to replace the ageing [[Boeing E-3 Sentry|Boeing E-3D Sentry AEW1]] fleet in the Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) role.<ref name="Wedgetail">{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/wedgetail-to-be-rafs-new-early-warning-radar-aircraft/ |title=Wedgetail To Be RAF'S New Early Warning Aircraft|publisher=Royal Air Force |date=22 March 2019 |access-date=22 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190322111155/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/wedgetail-to-be-rafs-new-early-warning-radar-aircraft/ |archive-date=22 March 2019}}</ref> As of May 2020, the first E-7 is expected to enter RAF service in 2023 with the final aircraft arriving in late 2025 or early 2026.<ref>{{cite web|title=AWACS: Written question – 41916|url=https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2020-05-01/41916|last=Quin|first=Jeremy|date=11 May 2020|website=UK Parliament|language=en|access-date=12 May 2020|archive-date=28 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200728115955/https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2020-05-01/41916|url-status=live}}</ref> In December 2020, it was announced that the Wedgetail AEW1 will be based at RAF Lossiemouth.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/raf-surveillance-fleet-to-be-based-in-moray/ |title=RAF surveillance fleet to be based in Moray |publisher=Royal Air Force |date=18 December 2020 |access-date=20 December 2020 |archive-date=19 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201219075717/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/raf-surveillance-fleet-to-be-based-in-moray// |url-status=live }}</ref> The 2021 Defence Command Paper cut the Wedgetail order down to three aircraft.<ref name="2021DCP"/> The Sentry AEW1s were officially withdrawn on 28 September 2021.<ref>{{cite web |first=Gareth |last=Jennings |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/uk-retires-sentry-aew1 |title=UK retires Sentry AEW1 |website=Janes.com |date=28 September 2021 |access-date=3 November 2021 |archive-date=3 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211103122529/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/uk-retires-sentry-aew1 |url-status=live }}</ref> In March 2021, the Defence and Security Industrial Strategy paper was published which announced the aim to procure a [[New Medium Helicopter]] (NMH) in order to replace the Puma HC2, Griffin HAR2 (in RAF service) and the AAC's [[Bell 212|Bell 212 AH1]] and [[Eurocopter AS365 Dauphin|Eurocopter Dauphin AH1]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/971983/Defence_and_Security_Industrial_Strategy_-_FINAL.pdf |title=Defence and Security Industrial Strategy: A strategic approach to the UK's defence and security industrial sectors (CP 410) |website=gov.uk |publisher=Ministry of Defence |date=26 March 2021 |access-date=3 March 2024 |page=99}}</ref> In May 2022, the MoD announced the beginning of the NMH competition, with the aim to acquire up to 44 helicopters.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/uk-s-new-medium-helicopter-nmh-programme |title=UK's New Medium Helicopter (NMH) programme |website=scramble.nl |date=3 November 2022 |access-date=3 March 2024}}</ref> By November 2022, four companies qualified for the MoD's requirements: Airbus ([[Airbus Helicopters H175|H175M]]); Boeing ([[Boeing MH-139 Grey Wolf|MH-139 Grey Wolf]]); Leonardo ([[AgustaWestland AW149|AW149]]); and Sikorsky / Lockheed Martin ([[Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk|S-70 Black Hawk]]).<ref>{{cite web |first=Gareth |last=Jennings |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/uk-downselects-new-medium-helicopter-contenders |title=UK downselects New Medium Helicopter contenders |website=janes.com |date=2 November 2022 |access-date=3 March 2024}}</ref> The [[Minister of State for Defence Procurement]] opened bidding for the competition, between Airbus Helicopters UK, Leonardo Helicopters UK and Lockheed Martin UK, in February 2024.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/future-uk-military-helicopter-reaches-next-competition-stage |title=Future UK military helicopter reaches next competition stage |website=gov.uk |date=27 February 2024 |access-date=3 March 2024}}</ref>
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