This week, RAF Typhoons have been conducting combat air training with Rafale fighter jets from the French Air and Space Force, flying from their base locations around the Eastern Mediterranean.
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Royal Air Force Typhoons from 903 Expeditionary Air Wing in Cyprus conducted joint training with French Rafale multi-role fighter jets flown by the Air and Space Force based in the Middle East. Carrying out bilateral air-to-air combat training over the Eastern Mediterranean, the fighters were supported by air-to-air refuelling from an RAF Voyager, also from 903 Expeditionary Air Wing.
"Building on the previous exercise conducted in December 2021, this Defence activity remains fundamental to furthering both nations' interoperability goals."
In addition to the valuable training, the joint exercise sends a strong strategic message that we remain in the Eastern Mediterranean as a valuable member of both the counter-Daesh mission and NATO, ready and able to work seamlessly with our many partners in the region."
Wing Commander Frazer
Commanding Officer of 903 Expeditionary Air Wing
The aircraft undertook rare and extremely valuable one-on-one Dissimilar Air Combat Training, often referred to as dog-fighting, with the Rafales. The RAF Voyager tanker extended the time-on-task for the fighters, thus elongating the training opportunity to further improve proficiency.
"This activity between French and British fighter aircraft in a strategic area illustrates the joint commitment capabilities of our two armed forces, based on strong interoperability and on the respect and enforcement of international law."
General Ianni
French Air Force
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