A Poseidon P-8 of the Royal Air Force conducted its first in-flight refueling in UK airspace during Exercise Cobra Warrior 25-2.
The operation was carried out by the 42nd Squadron, with a USAF KC-135 Stratotanker providing fuel to the aircraft mid-flight, allowing for longer time on station and extending its operational range.
The historic flight was commanded by squadron leader Kane, who has prior experience in refueling trials with US KC-135 and KC-46 tankers. A spokesperson for RAF Lossiemouth highlighted that the ability to extend the P-8’s mission time will bring significant benefits to both the RAF and allied forces, while reinforcing the importance of international cooperation.
The Poseidons, operated by squadrons 42, 120, and 201, are key to the UK’s anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance missions but had until now relied exclusively on American support for refueling.
The milestone comes shortly after the formal reactivation of the 42nd Squadron at Lossiemouth and coincides with the 2025 edition of Exercise Cobra Warrior, which brings together NATO partners for joint training.
Source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: X @RAFWaddington | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
✈️💡 Air-to-Air Refuelling: connecting at 100s of mph, 1000s of ft, even in the dark 🌌 During #COBRAWARRIOR, RAF tankers refuel UK & NATO jets, boosting reach, power & partnership 💪🌍 #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/0J1QAZqs7t
— RAF Waddington (@RAFWaddington) September 18, 2025
