A Typhoon from 6 Squadron has been scrambled from RAF Leuchars for the first time.
It was scrambled in support of Leuchars’ primary Quick Reaction Alert (interceptor) North mission, which aims to intercept unidentified aircraft approaching the country’s airspace.
The first of three Eurofighter Typhoon squadrons officially stood up last September at the Fife base.
During a phased operation 6 Squadron will replace the RAF’s long-serving Tornado F3 combat jets with the Eurofighters.
Last year one of the base’s two Tornado squadrons 43 (Fighter) Squadron was disbanded during the process.
In March 111 (Fighter) Squadron will follow suit after a handover to 6 Squadron.
While passing an important milestone in itself by successfully completing Quick Reaction Alert duties at RAF Leuchars for the very first time at the end of last month, the first multi-role Typhoon aircraft from Number 6 Squadron was scrambled on Sunday.
The primary mission for RAF Leuchars in Fife is to maintain QRA (Interceptor) North which requires air and ground crews to be on high alert to scramble 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to protect UK airspace.
The QRA role sits with the Tornado F3 aircraft of 111 (Fighter) Squadron, but in March the responsibility is to pass to 6 Squadron.
Officer Commanding 6 Squadron, Wing Commander Roddy Dennis, said, “Since the squadron reformed at RAF Leuchars in September 2010, our air and ground crew personnel have been on an intensive training programme preparing for our Typhoons to assume the Quick Reaction Alert role.
“Our aim was to assume responsibility for QRA over the festive period and I am delighted to say that we did so successfully.”
He said this was a “critical step” towards 6 Squadron taking over the QRA mission from 111 (Fighter) Squadron this year.
“I am proud of the way my personnel have met mission challenges so far and we look forward to taking on the air defence role of the northern UK on a full-time basis.”