RAF Typhoons and F-35s tested with French Rafale jets in simulated air threat

Royal Air Force Typhoons and F-35 Lightning jets have been tested with a simulated air threat exercise alongside French Rafale aircraft.

The aircraft of the two militaries met over the North Sea on Exercise Griffin Dawn.

RAF Typhoons played the role of a potential air threat while French A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft provided air-to-air refuelling.

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The exercise also examined how a French-UK team carried out training of their Command and Control.

RAF personnel joined French counterparts in le Centre Air de Planification et de Conduite des Opérations (CAPCO) near Lyon and worked with their UK equivalent – the RAF's 11 Group Joint Force Air Component based at RAF High Wycombe.

Griffin Dawn demonstrates how the Combined Joint Expeditionary Force (C-JEF) – an Anglo-French partnership committing the two nations to deploy air, land and sea capabilities – can work effectively.

The C-JEF also has more than 10,000 military personnel on hand to perform roles in peacekeeping, humanitarian aid and other areas.

Air Vice-Marshal Phil Robinson, Air Officer Commanding No. 11 Group, said: "The Combined Joint Expeditionary Force is a vital military partnership between the United Kingdom and France.

"This week I have witnessed the UK Air Component integrate seamlessly with our French Air and Space Force colleagues, demonstrating our interoperability and enhancing our Air Command and Control."

The Deputy Chief of Staff for CAPCO, Lieutenant-Colonel Jean-Christophe said: "Through Griffin Dawn, we have verified the interoperability between the assets of our two air forces, especially with data sharing and air-to-air refuelling compatibility.

"Overall, the exercise was a success, and the feedback will allow us to identify areas for improvement."