The RAF’s cutting-edge P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) has been at the forefront of surveillance operations from Iceland, having flown over 80 sorties since the beginning of November. This deployment was the largest yet of the P-8 fleet, supporting NATO’s Peacetime Vigilance Activity in the North Atlantic and providing the opportunity to enhance the RAF’s maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities
Conducting activity over the North Atlantic from Iceland has provided RAF crews with the opportunity to hone their skills in detecting, tracking and neutralising underwater threats. The P-8 Poseidon, equipped with state-of-the-art sensors and weaponry, has proven its value in safeguarding the UK’s maritime interests and supporting NATO operations.
The deployment also focused on interoperability, with the RAF working closely alongside NATO allies to ensure seamless coordination in joint maritime operations. This collaboration highlights the RAF’s commitment to maintaining security in the North Atlantic and beyond, confirming the RAF’s ability to rapidly deploy and employ its cutting-edge capabilities in diverse and challenging environments.
"This deployment demonstrates the critical role of the P-8 Poseidon in protecting our waters and supporting our NATO allies. It has allowed our crews to refine their skills and has reinforced our readiness to fly and fight and responsiveness to any maritime threat."
Air Marshal Marshall
RAF Air and Space Commander
120 Squadron has been central to much of the RAF’s P8’s activity from Keflavik airbase which underscores the importance of this partnership and the shared commitment to safeguarding the maritime domain. One of the P-8 Poseidon aircraft, is named “Spirit of Reykjavík” in honour of 120 Squadron’s historic ties to Iceland, where a detachment was based in Reykjavík in 1942, followed by the entire Squadron relocating there in 1943. During this time, 120 Squadron achieved its greatest successes in anti-submarine warfare, earning it the distinction of being one of only two RAF Squadrons to be awarded its Standard early; recognition of the Squadron’s exceptional performance in operations and contribution to national defence.
“This deployment to Iceland highlights the enduring importance of the North Atlantic and Arctic to the security of the Alliance. 120 Squadron has a proud history of working closely with Iceland, dating back to our vital role protecting these waters the last time the Squadron was based here during the Second World War. Today, operating the P-8A Poseidon, we continue that legacy by contributing to NATO’s collective defence and ensuring the security of this strategically critical region. It’s an honour to work alongside our Icelandic partners and NATO allies in our constant endeavour to safeguard the maritime domain.”
Wing Commander Higgins
Officer Commanding 120 Squadron
The P-8 Poseidon is a vital asset in the RAF’s fleet, providing long-range maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare and intelligence-gathering capabilities. This activity ensures the RAF remains at the forefront of maritime operations, ready to protect the UK and its allies from evolving threats.
