RAF Typhoon and F-35B Lightning aircraft have conducted long-range Defensive Counter Air patrols over HMS Dragon in the Red Sea, operating up to 1300 miles from RAF Akrotiri and delivering more than 50 hours of continuous defensive cover.
Enabled by RAF Voyager air-to-air refuelling, the operation highlighted the RAF’s ability to project combat air power at range, integrating fourth- and fifth-generation aircraft alongside maritime forces in a dynamic environment.
Operating in mixed formations, Typhoon and F-35B crews flew six waves of fighter missions, maintaining continuous coverage in support of the Royal Navy destroyer while operating at significant distance from their base in Cyprus.
The scale and endurance of the operation relied heavily on Voyager aircraft and supporting personnel, extending the range and persistence of the fighter force and enabling sustained air operations deep into the Red Sea.
“This activity demonstrated the RAF’s ability to integrate and sustain combat air power at range alongside our Royal Navy partners. Operating Typhoon and F-35B aircraft together, enabled by Voyager air-to-air refuelling, showcased the agility, reach and interoperability that underpin UK air power. This is agile air power, always ready, projected and sustained at range.”
Air Commodore Fred Wigglesworth
The missions brought together personnel from across the RAF, including crews from IX (Bomber) Squadron and 617 Squadron - two units with a shared operational history stretching back more than 80 years.
More than eight decades after flying combat operations together during the Second World War, the two squadrons once again operated side-by-side on long-range missions from RAF Akrotiri, linking the RAF’s historic legacy with today’s modern combat air capability.
Alongside the fighter aircraft, Voyager crews provided the air-to-air refuelling needed to support operations at extended range. Working closely with planners, engineers and support personnel, the Voyager aircraft helped sustain the air bridge, enabling continuous Defensive Counter Air coverage over HMS Dragon.
The operation demonstrated the RAF’s ability to generate and sustain integrated combat air power at reach - delivering credible, persistent effect alongside allies in support of UK defence wherever it is required.
