|
Aircraft in current RAF serviceThe RAF operates many different aircraft types, to fulfil a wide range of differing missions. Offensive AircraftThese aircraft enable the RAF to project air power as a deterrent, or in response to aggression, to any part of the world. The ability to operate far from their fixed bases at short notice is testimony to the effectiveness of the modern RAF. Defensive AircraftThe Air Defence of the United Kingdom is one of the key roles of the Royal Air Force. When this role is combined with the UK's commitment to NATO and to United Nations peacekeeping activities, the Air Defence forces of the RAF have to be potent, responsive and flexible. Reconnaissance and Maritime Patrol AircraftOn the modern battlefield, information, particularly accurate and timely information, is vital to any force commander. To supply this resource, the RAF operates a variety of aircraft equipped with world-leading reconnaissance systems. As a maritime nation, protection of the sea lanes is also of paramount importance, a role fulfilled by the Nimrod fleet. Tanker and Transport AircraftRAF air defence and other fixed wing operational aircraft are supported by a force of tanker aircraft. An air-to-air refuelling capability is a major asset to any air force enabling aircraft to be deployed very quickly over large distances, to stay on patrol longer, and to fly further into enemy territory carrying larger weapon loads. Equally vital to the projection of effective air power by a modern air force are strategic and tactical transport aircraft. Combat aircraft need a wide variety of support equipment and personnel to operate away from base, delivering these to where they are needed is the task of these aircraft. Smaller Transport AircraftSmaller transport aircraft are operated by No 32 (The Royal) Squadron based at RAF Northolt. These aircraft are employed on domestic and overseas flights in the rapid communications role for use by royalty, government ministers and senior military officers. The fleet includes eight BAe 125 executive jets (two Series 600 and six Series 700), three BAe 146s, and two Twin Squirrel helicopters. HelicoptersThe RAF has a commitment to support the British Army and our NATO allies in the field. The helicopter forces have a number of tasks in this role, largely that of transport of supplies and equipment to forward operating bases. Aside from this major task, the RAF helicopter forces also evacuate casualties, and operate in support of UN peacekeeping forces worldwide. Training AircraftThe quality of the RAF front line pilot is entirely dependent on his training. Without first class instructors, flying the most effective training aircraft, this quality would be difficult to achieve. These aircraft and the instructors are the building blocks upon which the best traditions of the service are founded. |
Welcome to the British Aircraft technical information centre. Here you will find details of all of the aircraft and weapons currently in use. Please click on the category of your choice, and select an item from the list displayed. For those unfamiliar with the terminology used within the modern Royal Air Force, there is a glossary of the more unusual terms.