The RAF has wrapped up two weeks of high-intensity sorties on Exercise Red Flag, held at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada.
Operating day and night alongside the United States Air Force (USAF) and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), the exercise showcased the RAF’s global reach and operational excellence.
“Exercise Red Flag is a demonstration of the Royal Air Force’s ability to project power globally, at range, while supporting multiple operations and exercises worldwide,” said Group Captain Holt, Detachment Commander for the exercise.
This year, the RAF deployed 14 aircraft, including a Rivet Joint from 51 Squadron, a Voyager from RAF Brize Norton, and 12 Typhoons from RAF Coningsby and Lossiemouth.
Making an appearance at Red Flag this year, the RAF Rivet Joint delivered UK ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance) capability. Working closely with partners and allies, around 70 personnel from 51 Squadron deployed to provide this critical asset, further enhancing the RAF impact on the exercise.
The conditions at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada provide the opportunity for large-scale combat air training in a clear, predictable environment.
“We’ve really wanted to maximise our exposure to the training here. It’s a unique opportunity to evaluate our tactics alongside high-end allies and partners.”
Squadron Leader Sennett
XI (F) Squadron pilot
The engineering effort is equally challenging, with Squadron Leader Bell, Senior Engineer Officer for XI (F) Squadron, leading a team of 132 engineers from multiple squadrons. “Combining engineers from different squadrons is always a challenge, but it’s actually a lot of fun. It creates a cross-pollination of experiences and ideas, which is a real positive,” he said.
Adding to the challenge, the 65th Aggressor Squadron, some of the USAF’s best F-16 and F-35 pilots, acted as the aggressor team, testing RAF, USAF and RAAF capabilities together in a dynamic and demanding environment.
Next Stop: Exercise Bamboo Eagle
The action doesn’t stop with Red Flag. The RAF has rolled straight into Exercise Bamboo Eagle, where they act as the defending team alongside USAF and RAAF partners. Operating with partners aircraft such as the F-35A and RAAF E-7, the RAF continues to push boundaries and strengthen international partnerships.
“Training alongside RAAF and USAF personnel allows us to test ourselves, learn together, and ultimately ensures we can compete and win against any adversary.”
Group Captain Holt
Detachment Commander for Exercise Red Flag 2026
