Huge air combat exercise kicks off in UK skies

Exercise Cobra Warrior, the largest air exercise conducted by the Royal Air Force, has begun.

Running from February 24th to March 14th, this major training event brings together more than 50 aircraft from a range of nations operating out of multiple UK bases, including RAF Waddington, RAF Lossiemouth, RAF Coningsby, RAF Brize Norton, and RAF Leeming.

Cobra Warrior is notable for involving NATO allies—such as France and Türkiye—and a non-NATO partner, Saudi Arabia. The participating fast jets include the F-15SA, F-16, Rafale, and the RAF’s own Eurofighter Typhoon, among others. Support comes from air-to-air refuelling assets, transport aircraft, and helicopters. The exercise offers a unique opportunity for these varied platforms and crews to conduct large-force, high-intensity missions in concert with one another.

A key aim of Cobra Warrior is the integration of capabilities from the participating nations. Crews practice a broad spectrum of operations, ranging from defensive counter-air to offensive missions, all orchestrated by directing staff based at RAF Waddington. Meanwhile, ground-based air defenses and electronic warfare elements positioned across northern England and other areas of the UK provide realistic threats, ensuring that air crews are challenged in scenarios akin to modern conflict environments.

Although not designed to replicate any specific real-world conflict, Cobra Warrior incorporates insights drawn from ongoing developments in modern warfare, particularly the importance of the electromagnetic spectrum, potential GPS denial, and advanced air defenses. Participants must adapt to these challenges throughout each phase of the exercise, honing tactics that are increasingly relevant as warfare becomes more digitally focused.

Beyond refining tactics and ensuring technical proficiency, Cobra Warrior is designed to strengthen relationships among allied and partner air forces. Familiarity with each other’s procedures, equipment, and methods of operation is expected to yield smoother coordination if and when these nations find themselves in joint operations in the future.

With its emphasis on high-tempo missions, evolving technologies, and multi-domain integration, Cobra Warrior remains an essential training ground for participating forces.

The exercise culminates in large-scale, multi-faceted scenarios that test every aspect of air combat, from traditional air-to-air engagements to full-spectrum electronic warfare. By the end of its run, all involved aim to be more prepared, more adaptable, and more tightly interconnected—outcomes crucial for confronting the challenges of modern warfare.