Operation Hightower demonstrates the Royal Air Force’s ability to project air power globally, with UK F-35s operating at extended range from the UK Carrier Strike Group, supported by Air Mobility Force Voyager. The RAF is collaborating and exercising with the Republic of Korea and Japan to strengthen defence ties and improve interoperability with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) and the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF).
RAF personnel and UK F-35s will conduct joint activities, supporting strategic objectives and reinforcing the UK’s commitment to Indo-Pacific security. Central to this effort is the RAF’s Voyager – part of the Air Mobility Force, which plays a vital role in enabling long-range operations. Voyager provides both air-to-air refuelling and airlift, allowing RAF assets to operate far from the UK or the Carrier Strike Group (CSG) with sustained tempo and flexibility.
As part of Operation Highmast, this deployment forms one of several operations and exercises the Royal Air Force is undertaking across the Indo-Pacific region. RAF personnel pre-positioned in Darwin, Australia, where UK F-35s and an RAF Voyager contributed to Exercise Talisman Sabre, demonstrating integrated air operations alongside regional partners. Following the exercise, RAF assets forward deployed ahead of the UK Carrier Strike Group to commence Operation Hightower.
During the Operation, the Voyager and UK F-35s will conduct joint training with JASDF and ROKAF, focusing on tactical integration and shared mission planning.
Operation Hightower highlights the RAF’s reach, resilience, and its ability to deliver strategic air power in partnership with allies across the Indo-Pacific region.
