UK’s Typhoon fighter jets took part in Qatar-led exercise Ferocious Falcon V

Europe, Middle East, News December 1, 2023 , by IRIA No Comments

The United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon FGR.Mk 4 fighter jets joined forces from Qatar, the United States, France, Italy, and Turkey in the Ferocious Falcon V international exercise held in Qatar.

The RAF Typhoons were joined by elements of the British Army’s 1st Battalion Scots Guards infantry regiment and British Royal Navy’s Duke-class Type 23 frigate HMS Lancaster. UK’s Typhoon aircraft flew from a Qatari air base and engaged in Defensive Counter Air training alongside participating nations in the exercise.

UK’s XI (F) Squadron Detachment Commander Squadron Leader Hodgkinson said, “XI (F) Squadron, like the rest of the Typhoon Force, are held at readiness to project Combat Air across the globe. We have completed Exercise Bersama Lima in Malaysia and then pivoted to the Middle East for this exercise, reflecting the agility and resilience the squadron and aircraft offers.”

Hodgkinson further highlighted that “This Exercise offered increased exposure to our allies in the Broader Middle East, facilitating advanced training and integration. The small detachment of pilots and specialist engineers have delivered 100% exercise sortie completion rates and the opportunity to work closely with international allies has been invaluable.”

*^{Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoons flying in formation over Southwest Asia. (Image Credit: UK Royal Air Force)}*

Qatar holds significance as a key defense ally for the United Kingdom, with collaborative squadrons of the RAF and the Qatari Emirates Air Force operating from the bases in the UK.

The Qatari-led exercise was aimed at fostering collaboration among partner forces, enhancing combat efficiency, and increasing unity. The exercise also bolstered the bonds of friendship, promoted support for joint actions, and facilitated the exchange of experiences among the participating countries.

Director of the exercise HE Staff Major General Rashid bin Ali Al Qashouti said that by engaging in joint exercises, like Ferocious Falcon V, the allied nations can strengthen cooperation among their Armed Forces. He highlighted that the exercise offered an opportunity to implement shared operational procedures and strengthen cooperation between the forces involved.

Chief of Staff of the Qatar Armed Forces, Lieutenant General (Pilot) Salem bin Hamad bin Aqeel Al Nabit attended the launch of the International Joint Operation during the exercise. Several high-ranking officers from the Qatari armed forces, as well as diplomats and military attaches of allied nations, also joined the participating forces in Qatar.