Royal Air Force

The Royal Air Force (RAF) is a technologically advanced and globally deployed air and space force. Its structure is headed by the Chief of the Air Staff and managed by the Air Force Board, with command delegated to Headquarters Air Command. Operationally, the force is organized into Groups, which are further subdivided into Wings and Squadrons, the basic operational unit. This structure also includes the RAF Regiment, a specialist corps providing ground defense and force protection. A key feature of its deployment strategy is the use of Expeditionary Air Wings, which are forward-deployed to support operations overseas, such as those in the Middle East and the Falkland Islands.

The RAF's strategic doctrine has evolved to emphasize multi-domain operations, integrating air, space, and cyber capabilities. Central to its modern warfighting concept is Agile Combat Employment (ACE), which focuses on operational unpredictability and resilience. This doctrine prioritizes gaining decision superiority through networked, information-led operations, leveraging advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) assets. The RAF provides a spectrum of capabilities including air defense, offensive airpower, heavy lift and tactical transport, and air-to-air refueling.

Recent operational engagements highlight the RAF's commitment to collective security and international coalitions. It is a key contributor to NATO missions, including Baltic and Southern Air Policing (Operations AZOTIZE and BILOXI respectively) and has reinforced NATO's eastern flank in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The RAF has been continuously engaged in counter-terrorism operations in Iraq and Syria under Operation SHADER. It also maintains a significant presence in the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean through Operation KIPION.

Modernization is a core focus for the RAF, centered on maintaining a technological edge. The introduction of the F-35B Lightning II is transforming its combat air capability, operating alongside an upgraded Typhoon fleet. Looking to the future, the UK is collaborating with Italy and Japan on the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to develop a sixth-generation fighter. Other major modernization programs include the procurement of E-7 Wedgetail airborne early warning and control aircraft, the expansion of the A400M Atlas transport fleet, and the introduction of the Protector RG Mk1 remotely piloted aircraft. This investment is coupled with an emphasis on synthetic training and developing a "fifth-generation enabled" force that is highly interoperable with key allies.