WT001 is the first aircraft in the RAF’s future Wedgetail fleet and will continue its test and evaluation phase at its future main operating base. The Royal Air Force said the arrival marks another significant milestone in the programme’s progression.
The aircraft was flown to RAF Lossiemouth by a mixed crew from Boeing UK and the RAF. The test and evaluation phase is split between MOD Boscombe Down and RAF Lossiemouth to support safe, efficient and assured progress toward entry into service.
Once the phase is complete, the aircraft will be formally handed over from Boeing UK to the RAF. It will then be operated by 8 Squadron.
The Wedgetail will serve alongside the RAF’s nine Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, also based at RAF Lossiemouth. Both aircraft types are based on the Boeing 737 Next Generation airframe, allowing the RAF and Boeing to use synergies between the two fleets.
“We are delighted to welcome the arrival of the first Wedgetail aircraft to RAF Lossiemouth to continue its Test and Evaluation phase,” said Group Captain Sarah Brewin, Station Commander RAF Lossiemouth.
“This marks a significant step in delivering the Royal Air Force’s next generation of airborne surveillance and control capabilities that will support the defence of the UK for the years to come,” Brewin added.
“RAF Lossiemouth has been working hard to get ready to operate these aircraft, and we are looking forward very much to this next exciting chapter in the Station’s history when the aircraft enters RAF service,” she said.
The Wedgetail is the RAF’s next-generation airborne early warning and control aircraft. It is designed to provide long-range surveillance, battle management, and command and control for air and joint operations.
The platform is also in service with the Royal Australian Air Force, the Republic of Korea Air Force and the Turkish Air Force. Boeing said the aircraft will provide the UK with an advanced airborne early warning and control capability.
“The E-7 will provide the UK with the world’s most advanced, capable and reliable Airborne Early Warning and Control platform, while supporting British industry through UK jobs and supply chain opportunities,” said Stu Voboril, Boeing E-7 Vice President and Program Manager.
“Working closely with the RAF and the MOD, we look forward to continuing test and evaluation as the aircraft moves closer to entry into service,” Voboril added.
On arrival at RAF Lossiemouth, WT001 was met by Brewin, representatives from Boeing UK, the Wedgetail Project Team and 8 Squadron. A member of the RAF Lossiemouth Pipe Band was also present to provide what the RAF described as a Scottish welcome.
