A reconnaissance aircraft that intercepts and analyses electronic and signals intelligence for military operations.

The RAF's RC-135W Rivet Joint, operated by No 51 Squadron at RAF Waddington, delivers real-time electronic intelligence using advanced sensors and ground support teams. It remains interoperable with U.S. systems and adaptable to future defence needs.

ROLE

Entering operational service in 2014 through Project Airseeker, the RAF’s three RC-135W Rivet Joint aircraft and ground systems will counter evolving electromagnetic threats until 2035. With a strong history of supporting NATO and coalition missions, the Rivet Joint provides world-class electronic surveillance, enhancing ISTAR capabilities, delivering precise intelligence, and improving commanders' situational awareness day and night.

Technical Specifications

Specifications

Technical Specifications

Sensors

CAPABILITY

The RAF's RC-135Ws, operated by No 51 Squadron at RAF Waddington, work alongside other ISTAR assets to deliver critical intelligence. Crews use advanced sensors to intercept and analyse signals across the electromagnetic spectrum, providing real-time strategic and tactical intelligence. Ground specialists in No 54 Signals Unit process and exploit the collected data, enhancing mission outcomes. Collaborating with U.S. counterparts and industry, these teams ensure the Rivet Joint remains effective, fully interoperable with the RAF's latest combat systems, and ready for future defence challenges.

Based at

Flying with

Roles

Pilot

Weapon Systems Officer

Weapon Systems Operator

Weapon Systems Operator (Linguist)

History of the RC-135W Rivet Joint

Boeing's Dash 80 prototype, first flown in 1954, marked a leap into the jet age but failed to impress airlines. Instead, the U.S. Air Force saw its potential, commissioning it as the KC-135 Stratotanker in 1955. The airframe evolved into various military variants, including the RC-135, with the first electronic intelligence RC-135B entering service in the 1960s. By 2011, the UK’s No. 51 Squadron retired its Nimrod R.Mk 1 and transitioned to the RC-135W Rivet Joint under Project Airseeker, converting USAF KC-135R airframes.

The first UK Rivet Joint was delivered in 2013, followed by two more by 2017, integrating seamlessly with the USAF fleet for sensor upgrades. Known for its cutting-edge intelligence capabilities, Rivet Joint has been deployed extensively for missions like Operation Shader.