UK F-35B Jets Deploy to Iceland for Key NATO Air Policing Mission

British F-35B jets have begun arriving in Iceland this week to join a key NATO air policing mission, underscoring a strong commitment to protecting allied airspace in the Arctic region.

This deployment, featuring pilots from the RAF’s 617 Squadron, highlights the UK’s dedication to NATO’s collective defense.

The mission is part of NATO’s ongoing peacetime air policing operations, which aim to secure Allied skies through continuous presence and readiness.

With fighter aircraft and crews stationed at strategic locations, the force is ready to respond promptly to any airspace infringements.

The arrival of the F-35Bs follows a reaffirmed UK commitment to NATO, emphasized by the Prime Minister during the recent Summit in Washington. The Prime Minister reaffirmed the UK’s determination to strengthen the Alliance and address global threats to Britain and its Western allies.

Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard, stated, “The UK remains steadfast in its commitment to NATO. As threats increase and Russian aggression grows, it is crucial that we stand united with our allies. This air policing mission in Iceland demonstrates the UK’s capability to operate and deter adversaries across the alliance’s airspace.”

Following a successful air policing mission in Romania, where six Typhoon fighter jets and over 200 personnel were stationed at Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, the RAF has shifted its focus to Iceland.

This deployment includes four advanced F-35B Lightning jets from 617 Squadron, which have traveled from RAF Marham for the mission.

This marks the first time since 2019 that British jets have participated in such activities in Iceland. In that previous mission, four Typhoon jets conducted 59 training sorties and over 180 practice intercepts.

The F-35B Lightning, known for its advanced sensors, mission systems, and stealth technology, offers a significant tactical advantage by avoiding enemy radar detection.

This versatile multi-role combat aircraft can operate from both land and sea and is kept at high readiness for global deployment in support of UK and NATO operations.

Group Captain John Butcher, Lightning Force Commander, noted, “This will be the first time the Lightning Force has deployed for NATO Air Policing, showcasing the flexibility of this platform and its capability to operate from both land and maritime environments.”

In addition to the Iceland mission, RAF Typhoons and Voyagers continue to conduct air policing in the UK through the Quick Reaction Alert Force, based at RAF Coningsby, Lossiemouth, and Brize Norton, ensuring round-the-clock protection of UK airspace throughout the year.