RAF Typhoons play the bad guys as Swedish Gripens scramble to intercept them
RAF Typhoons and Swedish Gripens have been training together for the first time since the start of their joint deployment to Malbork in Poland – with the British jets playing the bad guys.
The Typhoons simulated an adversary formation, with the Swedish air force Gripens being scrambled to intercept them, with both sides being supported by a German air force A400M air-to-air refuelling aircraft.
The Typhoons are operating as part of Operation Chessman, the UK contingent delivering Nato's enhanced Air Policing mission.
The training sortie allowed pilots from No. II (Army Cooperation) Squadron and the Swedish air force's 211 and 212 Fighter Squadrons, to gain first-hand experience of working together.
"We work to the same rules and tactics, so it is important to train with other Nato members," the Officer Commanding No. II (AC) Squadron explained.
"As a pilot you are always learning, sharing experiences, exchanging tactics and ideas. Ultimately pilots are all growing and maturing with every mission we fly, whether it is a training sortie or live mission.
"Training with other nations and aircraft results in all involved learning new ideas and improving all nations' interoperability. Today was a great experience for all involved."
Refuelling from a Luftwaffe A400M was another first for the squadron.
One Typhoon pilot pointed out: "We are greatly experienced in refuelling from RAF Voyager aircraft and similar aircraft from other nations.
"However, refuelling from an A400M presents unique challenges due to subtle differences, such as refuelling airspeed, hose response and basket size and shape.
"The German crews were extremely professional, and it was a great experience working with them."
Personnel from across the RAF are currently deployed to Malbork alongside Nato's newest member, Sweden, until July.
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