The Royal Air Force’s 617 Squadron is currently deployed in Iceland as part of Operation Masterer, contributing to NATO’s air policing mission by providing what has been described as “critical airpower.”
According to a recent announcement from the RAF, this mission marks the first time British F-35B Lightning jets have been stationed in Iceland for such a task, underlining the UK’s commitment to maintaining the security of NATO’s airspace in the Arctic region.
This deployment follows a successful mission in Romania, where RAF Typhoons defended NATO’s eastern borders. Now, the F-35Bs from RAF Marham have taken on the responsibility of patrolling Icelandic skies, part of NATO’s permanent peacetime mission aimed at deterring airspace violations.
The mission is notable as it is the first deployment of British jets to Iceland since 2019, when Typhoon jets last performed a similar role.
The F-35B’s advanced sensors, mission systems, and stealth technology provide a significant tactical advantage, making it an ideal platform for NATO air policing, say the RAF.
“This will be the first time that the Lightning Force has deployed to contribute to NATO Air Policing, and will no doubt once again prove the flexibility that this platform offers as it demonstrates its capability to operate from both a land and maritime environment,” said Group Captain John Butcher, Lightning Force Commander.
Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard, also highlighted the strategic importance of the mission, stating, “This latest air policing mission in Iceland displays the UK’s ability to operate and deter our adversaries across the alliance’s airspace.”
As Operation Masterer continues, 617 Squadron continue to strengthen ties with Iceland, providing critical air power. 🇮🇸
Watch the video to find out more about our most recent @NATO Air Policing mission and how this relationship is set to last.
