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RAF continue to support Iraqi Security Forces

Two Typhoons on the runway.

The RAF continue to fly operational sorties over the Middle East in support of the Global Counter Daesh Coalition.  This includes Typhoon sorties where the pilots are flying armed reconnaissance missions to support the Iraqi Security Forces keeping their country safe from Daesh terrorism. 

On Monday 6th September, Iraqi ground forces conducting security operations approximately thirty miles south of Erbil came under fire from a Daesh position in an area of heavy vegetation.  

Two Typhoons flying.

Two RAF Typhoon FGR4s responded to a call for assistance and, working closely with the ground forces to ensure no risks were posed to either them or any civilians, used a single Paveway IV guided bomb to successfully eliminate the threat.

"The importance of maintaining our focus on Operation Shader during recent months was highlighted at the beginning of September when the Typhoons from this air station conducted a strike against Daesh fighters who were engaged with Iraqi forces causing a ‘troops in contact’ scenario. The precise strike, utilising a Paveway IV, neutralised the threat and provided stability and safety for those troops involved."

Wing Commander ‘Dutch’ Holland
Commanding Officer, 903 Expeditionary Air Wing