RAF Typhoon fighter jets have conducted air-to-air refuelling operations with a German Air Force Atlas A400M aircraft for the first time as part of operations within the International Counter Daesh Coalition.

The International Counter Daesh Coalition, formed in 2014, is an alliance of over 70 nations working to combat the terrorist group Daesh (also known as ISIL or ISIS). The coalition’s efforts include military action, disrupting financial support, preventing the movement of foreign fighters, aiding in reconstruction, and countering extremist propaganda. 

On 21 February, the Royal Air Force (RAF) announced it had completed refuelling exercises with the German Air Force to enhance interoperability within the Counter Daesh Coalition. The drills involved Typhoon fighters refuelling from German Atlas A400M air-to-air refuelling aircraft. While the RAF typically uses Voyager Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft for refuelling, training pilots to use the A400M increases operational flexibility and cooperation between the two air forces.

An RAF Typhoon pilot involved in the mission described the differences in refuelling from the A400M:

“We are well trained and experienced in refuelling from the Voyager aircraft as operated by the RAF and other nations. Refuelling from A400M, however, was different because of subtleties that make a surprisingly big difference; such as refuelling airspeed, hose response and markings, basket size and shape, and aircraft lighting at night.”

The RAF uses the Atlas A400M as a tactical transport aircraft to support UK military operations in the Middle East and beyond. The German Air Force, however, can also configure its A400M for air-to-air refuelling.