Nato air power milestone as RAF Rivet Joint refuelled by French A330 MRTT for first time

In a historic first for Nato airpower interoperability, an RAF River Joint (RJ) intelligence aircraft has been refuelled by a French Air and Space Force A330 multi-role tanker transport (MRTT).  

The milestone was achieved during Exercise Ravitaillement, where the air forces of the UK, France and the United States conducted air-to-air refuelling, demonstrating the alliance's ability to operate together effectively. 

Aircraft systems, procedures, timing, and crew coordination were all tested during the realistic sequence, arguably one of the most difficult and high-stakes manoeuvres in military aviation – and one which leaves zero margin for error. 

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Squadron Leader Dan, Officer Commanding A Flight, 51 Squadron, said: "The UK RJ participation in this integrated mission demonstrates that true combat power lies in seamless interoperability.

"By aligning procedures, tactics and trust across Nato partners, we proved our ability to operate as one cohesive force, while laying the foundation for deeper integration and agility in future operations."

More than just bolstering collective defence, it also reinforces the UK's Nato first approach, which shifts focus to warfighting readiness and defence closer to home in the Euro-Atlantic region.  

Fuelling the fight 

The UK routinely conducts air-to-air refuelling sorties to train pilots in the millimetre-precision needed to carry out the daring manoeuvre.   

It is a critical capability, enabling the aircraft to extend its range, carry greater payloads, and sustain prolonged operations to and from bases around the world. 

Last year, BFBS Forces News reporter Simon Newton joined the crew of an RAF Voyager, and watched as it refuelled two Typhoons which had been mobilised under Operation Eastern Sentry.  

More recently, Exercise Ramstein Flag – Nato's largest air exercise of the year – involved an air-to-air refuelling element.

It included several nations, including France, Poland, Turkey and the United States, using a US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft from the 100th Air Refuelling Wing and the French A330 MRTT. 

Alongside the training, Nato's pilots flew roughly 150 sorties every day.