RAF Typhoons and F-35s carry out their largest-ever mass firing of ASRAAM missiles

Royal Air Force Typhoons and F-35B Lightning II jets have carried out their largest-ever mass firing of Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles (ASRAAM).

Pilots from eight squadrons launched 53 missiles at target drones over 10 days, the RAF said.

The practice camp took place over the sea in the Hebrides Air Weapon Ranges in September.

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Personnel involved included Typhoon pilots from 1(F), II(AC), 6 and IX(B) Squadrons based at RAF Lossiemouth, as well as from 3(F), and 41 Test & Evaluation Squadron at RAF Coningsby, together with Lightnings from 207 and 617 Squadrons based at RAF Marham.

Aircrews and logistical handlers sharpened their skills including the destruction of Banshee drone targets to moving and loading live weapons onto aircraft.

An RAF Lossiemouth-based pilot said: "It surpassed all expectations of what my first live firing exercise on the Typhoon would be.

"Selecting the weapon and knowing a live missile would come off the rail was a unique moment; hearing the missile tone and pulling the trigger, followed by a large whoosh sound and a slight wobble of the aircraft was fantastic.

"Watching the missile disappear into the sky in front of me was a moment to remember, it really is impressive how fast the Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles can go."

The pilot went on: "The experience has given me a real appreciation of the capability of the missile and how it can be employed in a real combat situation."