Big air exercise will see extra flights from RAF Leuchars

RAF LEUCHARS is preparing to play a big role in one of Europe’s biggest military exercises.

The RAF and French Navy aircraft will be operating from the station during Exercise Joint Warrior (JW) 131 this month, the largest exercise held in Europe.

Night flying will be an important part of the exercise.

Typhoon aircraft from 6 Squadron will be taking part in the exercise, which provides training for all three UK armed services.

Additionally, a small detachment of Hawk aircraft of Number 100 Squadron from RAF Leeming in Yorkshire will be flying sorties from Leuchars.

RAF Leuchars will also be hosting a detachment of the French Navy Carrier Air, consisting of Rafale, Super Etendard and E2C Hawkeye aircraft.

The French detachment is arriving at RAF Leuchars this week and will conduct familiarisation flights.

An RAF Leuchars spokesman said: “As ever, RAF Leuchars will make every effort to minimise disruption to the local community and we thank our neighbours for their understanding during this important training activity.”