First UK RC-135 arrives at RAF Waddington
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All we need is other important areas of our ISTAR capability to be secured in 2015 and we'll be golden.
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Good job, it'd be quite nice to have the trio all delivered ahead of schedule and this expedite the types ISD into service before mid-2017.The aircraft will form part of project Airseeker, which will provide the UK with a world class capability able to provide real-time on-scene intelligence, surveillance and analysis for forces in the air and on the ground.
The Boeing RC-135V/W Rivet Joint system has a proven track record, having been used by the United States Air Force (USAF) for many years. Since 2011, the RAF’s 51 Squadron have been training and operating alongside their USAF colleagues in preparation for the UK aircraft entering service in late 2014.
UK crews have already achieved in excess of 32,000 flying hours and 1,800 sorties as part of the US 55th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing.
MOD has purchased 3 aircraft from the US which will each be configured to support UK operations. The first aircraft has successfully completed its flight trials in Greenville, Texas, ahead of schedule, allowing it to be delivered to the UK early.
All we need is other important areas of our ISTAR capability to be secured in 2015 and we'll be golden.