A RAF Voyager tanker has conducted Air to Air refuelling operations with French Aéronavale Rafale M jets as part of the Global Coalition against Daesh operations in the Middle East.
The French jets are currently serving in the Middle East and are flying from the French Aircraft Carrier Charles De Gaulle. The Rafale's refuelled after completing their sortie and while returning to the carrier.
"Refuelling from the Voyager is the proof of the interoperability of our nations. We are happy to share the sky and the same fighting spirit!"
Lieutenant Colonel Matthieu
French Officer serving with at the Coalition Combined Air Operations Centre
The RAF together with the other coalition members regularly fly in support of each other to deliver Air Power as part of the ongoing campaign against Daesh.
"The Voyager Force prides ourselves on being able to support our coalition partners. In this case the RAF Voyager operationally refuelled the French Rafale M's, as we come together and take the fight to Daesh. It is essential that we practice Air-to-Air Refuelling with allied nations, such as the French, in a familiar low threat environment, before deploying into an operational theatre. During an Exercise the airspace threats are significantly lower, hence it's a perfect opportunity to refine standard operating procedures. This enables us to confirm and combine our efforts both in the air and on the ground before coming out to a higher risk airspace, as seen here across the Middle-East.”
Squadron Leader Train
Voyager Detachment Commander
