The Royal Air Force Regiment continues to conduct successful self‑defence engagements against drones threatening coalition personnel and facilities across the Middle East.
These actions demonstrate the UK’s ability to protect its people and partners while maintaining a measured but effective defensive posture in a complex operating environment.
Specialist teams from No. 2 Counter‑Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C‑UAS) Wing employ a combination of electronic and kinetic systems to detect, track, identify and defeat hostile drones before they can endanger aircraft, infrastructure or personnel. Operating from established UK positions, they work as part of a coalition effort alongside the US, British Army and wider RAF, ensuring a coherent and coordinated defensive response.
Delivering Self‑Defence for Coalition Forces
In recent weeks, RAF Regiment operators have engaged multiple drones directed towards coalition forces. Each engagement has been conducted within strict self‑defence rules, using proven force protection measures that have prevented threats from impacting operational activity.
These events underline the Regiment’s ability to deliver timely, accurate and safe defensive action in demanding conditions. Their work provides commanders with confidence that air and space operations can continue without disruption from airborne threats.
Expanding and Enhancing Defensive Capability
To meet ongoing operational demand, the RAF has deployed additional C‑UAS capability with advanced detection and defeat systems such as Orcus and Ninja, which combines radar and radio frequency technology to provide a precise defensive intercept option at range. These systems sit within a layered defensive network already protecting coalition personnel.
This enhancement reflects the UK’s commitment to ensuring its deployed forces - and those of its partners - are protected against the rapid evolution of the drone threat.
“Our RAF Regiment counter‑drone teams continue to deliver assured, professional protection for UK and coalition personnel. Their consistent performance in demanding conditions reinforces our defensive posture and contributes directly to the wider coalition effort.”
Group Captain Wiseman
Commander RAF Regiment
The Regiment’s activity is integrated with US, British Army and RAF units across the region, ensuring that defensive actions are aligned, proportionate and effective.
The RAF Regiment has maintained a long‑term defensive presence in the Middle East, supporting UK and coalition air operations. This posture - centred on self‑defence, protection of personnel and the freedom to operate - will continue as required.
By combining advanced technology, adaptive tactics and highly trained operators, the RAF Regiment provides a credible, reliable and necessary defensive capability that contributes to broader regional stability.
