Success of Exercise Cobra Warrior
Aircraft from RAF Waddington were among the 80 that recently took part in a multi-national exercise.
Exercise Cobra Warrior was RAF’s largest exercise of the year and was also controlled by directing staff at the air base south of Lincoln.
Aircraft and personnel from across the UK, including RAF Coningsby, trained with NATO members in challenging and complex scenarios to enhance combat readiness.
Designed to train participants in high-intensity, tactical air warfare the exercise also involved aircraft from the Royal Canadian Air Force the Polish Air Force the Finnish Air Force and the Norwegian Air Force.
“The successful conclusion of Exercise Cobra Warrior 24-2 represents a significant achievement and is testament to the hard work of everyone involved,” explained Wing Commander Sam Williams, Officer Commanding 92 Squadron from the Air & Space Warfare Centre at RAF Waddington.
“Recent events on the world stage have only served to highlight how important it is that we are ready to operate effectively together today, and if necessary, to fight tonight.”
The Royal Canadian Air flying CF-18 Hornet fast jets from RAF Waddington, supported by their CC-130H air-to-air refuelling aircraft. Also based at RAF Waddington were the PolAF with F-16s and the FinAF with F-18s. RAF Typhoon Fast Jets also took part from RAF Coningsby, and NorAF F-35s operating from RAF Lakenheath.
The fast jets were supported by United States Air Force Europe (USAFE) KC-135 conducting air-to-air refuelling operations, from RAF Lakenheath.
Exercise Cobra Warrior not only tested Air assets, but it also saw various elements from across RAF’s Global Enablement and Combat Readiness, providing the vital capabilities required for success. This includes cyber communication specialists from 90 Signals Unit setting up and maintaining secure communication links throughout the duration of the exercise.
“It's a lot bigger for us than it has been for a number of years. We've got multiple fast jets and multiple heavy aircraft supporting and it's always great to see our NATO allies and partners here and get the opportunity to train together,” added Wing Commander Colin Melvin, Officer Commanding Operations Support Wing, RAF Waddington.
Top Image:
F-18 Hornets from both the Finnish Air Force and Royal Canadian Air Force have been based at RAF Waddington, for the duration of Exercise Cobra Warrior.
F-18 leaving RAF Waddington.
16 Air Assault Brigade disembarking an A400M Atlas with troops and vehicles into Carlisle Lake District Airport, before returning to RAF Brize Norton as part of Exercise Cobra Warrior.