This week, RAF Eurofighter Typhoons and Swedish Air Force JAS-39 Gripens conducted training together for the first time since the start of their joint deployment to Malbork, Poland.
The British Typhoons departed Malbork Air Base first to simulate an adversary formation, with the Swedish Gripens being scrambled to intercept the Typhoons, supported by a German Air Force A400M air-to-air refuelling aircraft.
This is a first for the detachment, however it is not the first time the RAF Typhoon and Swedish Air Force Gripen aircraft have trained together. Previously, the aircraft from the RAF and Swedish Air Force carried out joint training in October 2022 as part of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) at Ravlunda Range in southern Sweden.
This week’s training sortie allowed pilots from No. II (Army Cooperation) Squadron and Swedish Air Force 211 and 212 Fighter Squadrons, to gain first-hand experience of working together. This will lead to a better understanding of capabilities and increased interoperability both in the air and amongst the ground crews.
“We work to the same rules and tactics, so it is important to train with other NATO members. As a pilot you are always learning, sharing experiences, exchanging tactics and ideas. Ultimately pilots are all growing and maturing with every mission we fly, whether it is a training sortie or live mission.
“Training with other nations and aircraft results in all involved learning new ideas and improving all nations interoperability, today was a great experience for all involved.”
Officer Commanding No. II (AC) Squadron
Conducting air-to-air refuelling from a German A400M was another first for pilots from No. II (AC) Squadron, further enhancing the squadrons capability whilst operating in the enhanced Air Policing mission.
“We are greatly experienced in refuelling from RAF Voyager aircraft and similar aircraft from other nations. However, refuelling from an A400M presents unique challenges due to subtle differences, such as refuelling airspeed, hose response and basket size and shape. The German crews were extremely professional, and it was a great experience working with them.”
RAF Typhoon pilot
Operation Chessman is the UK contingent delivering the NATO enhanced Air Policing mission. RAF personnel currently deployed at Malbork Airbase, are under the command of 140 Expeditionary Air Wing. Personnel from across the RAF are currently deployed to Malbork alongside NATO's newest member, Sweden, until July 2025.
