Cobra Warrior 2023

Exercise Cobra Warrior 2023, the UK’s largest exercise, took place between 6th March and 24th March with visiting aircraft deployed to RAF Coningsby and RAF Waddington.  Six Typhoons from a mix of 3 Squadron, 10 Squadron and 80 Squadron of the Royal Saudi Air Force were deployed to RAF Coningsby while RAF Waddington hosted five Mirage 2000 from 7 Squadron of the Indian Air Force, six FA-18C from HavLLv 31 of the Finnish Defence Force and six F-16AM from 359 Squadron of the Belgian Air Component.

They were joined by RAF Typhoons from RAF Coningsby and F-35s from RAF Marham, aircraft and helicopters from other bases as well as the based aircraft at RAF Waddington.

USAF participation was with F-15E Strike Eagles and F-35A Lightning II from 48th Fighter Wing RAF Lakenheath. In total approximately 70 aircraft were involved.

The exercise develops the tactical leadership skills of aircrew and supporting elements within a complex air environment. Personnel develop, plan and practice tactics, techniques and procedures during scenarios and complete training within the mission employment phase for future weapons instructors within a multinational force framework.