RAF airdrops vital fuel supplies to British Antarctic Survey

An RAF A400M Atlas aircraft has delivered vital fuel supplies to the British Antarctic Survey after launching from the Falkland Islands.

The RAF said the range of the Atlas was extended by air-to-air refuelling from a Royal Air Force Voyager.

"The mission has demonstrated the strength of partnership across government and the global reach of RAF Air Mobility," the RAF said.

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Air Commodore John Lyle, Commander of the Air Mobility Force, said: "This is the culmination of significant work across the Air Mobility Force and with our personnel in the Falkland Islands (@BFSouthAtlantic) to deliver vital support in a very challenging environment.

"Excellent work all round #RAFAirMobility."

Group Captain Gareth Burdett, who commands the flying squadrons and Airborne Delivery Wing of the Air Mobility Force, said: "This is what global air mobility looks like. Great teamwork from 905EAW, 47AD Sqn, the Atlas sqns and @BAS_News."

The British Antarctic Survey provides research infrastructure that enables global scientists to operate effectively and safely in the polar regions.