From their location in the Eastern Mediterranean, RAF Typhoons have conducted combat air training with Rafale fighter jets from the French Air and Space Force.
This week, Typhoons from 903 Expeditionary Air Wing in Cyprus conducted joint training with Rafale multi-role fighter jets flown by the French Air and Space Force based in the Middle East. Carrying out bilateral air-to-air combat training over the south east Mediterranean, the fighters were supported by air-to-air refuelling from an RAF Voyager, also from 903 Expeditionary Air Wing.
"Today was extremely useful for furthering both nations’ ability to provide fighter response to a contingency scenario. It was a great opportunity to further develop the interoperability between the two air forces flying different aircraft types. In addition to some very valuable flying, the operation sends a strong strategic message that we remain in the Eastern Mediterranean as a valuable member of the counter-Daesh mission, ready and able to work seamlessly with our many partners in the region."
Wing Commander Holland
Commanding Officer 903 Expeditionary Air Wing
The aircraft practiced simulated long-range missile employment based on radar tracks of the opposing fighters before closing to do visual combat training (dog fighting). The RAF Voyager tanker provided air-to-air training to extend the time on task for the fighters so they could repeat the training to further improve proficiency.
