RAF's cutting-edge airborne early warning E-7 Wedgetail completes first UK test flight
The Royal Air Force's cutting-edge Wedgetail E7 AEW Mk1 aircraft has hit an important milestone, taking its maiden test flight from Birmingham Airport.
The Wedgetail, which has not even been fully painted yet, will operate from RAF Lossiemouth.
The airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft will provide eyes in the sky for at least the next 20 years.
It is capable of generating a 360-degree view of the airspace, and as a force multiplier, the aircraft will provide the RAF with advanced warning of approaching threats enabling commanders to fight effectively in complex environments.
The Wedgetail can also provide accurate target information using its Multirole Electronically Scanned Array housed in a distinctive housing on the spine of the aircraft.
A sensor, combined with an advanced communications suite, enables the crew to provide tactical control to other assets via voice and tactical data link while enhancing the situational awareness of Joint Force commanders.
"The Wedgetail significantly enhances the capability of friendly combat aircraft and warships, enabling their missions and increasing their survivability in a hostile environment," said the RAF.
The aircraft will soon be heading to a paint facility to receive its RAF livery.
The Wedgetail will serve under No 8 Squadron and will be located at RAF Lossiemouth alongside the P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, both of which are based upon the widely used Boeing 737 Next Generation airframe.
Richard Murray, director of air support at DE&S (Defence Equipment and Support), highlighted the hard-working team behind the "significant milestone".
"Our team has worked tirelessly with our partners to progress what is a hugely complex endeavour. We are moving forward and will be delivering this critical capability to the RAF," he said.
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