Led by the Italian Air Force, Falcon Strike brings together air forces from France, Greece, the United States, and the United Kingdom to integrate fourth and fifth-generation aircraft and refine coalition tactics. The training also aims to strengthen logistics cooperation among F-35 user nations operating in complex joint scenarios.
“Exercise Falcon Strike is another outstanding demonstration of how far our collaboration with the Italian Air Force has come,” said Air Marshal Allan Marshall, Air and Space Commander. “Training side-by-side with our Italian colleagues strengthens interoperability, deepens mutual understanding and ensures that both nations remain ready to deliver decisive air power whenever and wherever it’s needed. This exercise showcased not only fifth-generation capability, but the trust and professionalism that underpin every mission we fly together.”
Falcon Strike is the latest in a series of joint operations under Operation Highmast, the UK’s strategic deployment initiative that has seen British air and space assets operating across multiple theatres since early 2025. The deployment is being conducted in coordination with the Royal Navy’s Carrier Strike Group, centred on HMS Prince of Wales, demonstrating integrated UK air and sea power.
“Over the past eight months, the Royal Air Force has delivered a truly global contribution through Operation Highmast from the UK to the Mediterranean, across the Middle East and deep into the Indo-Pacific,” said Air Marshal Marshall. “This has been a sustained demonstration of reach, resilience and relevance: projecting air and space power, strengthening partnerships and reaffirming the UK’s commitment to regional security. As our crews now operate alongside allies once again here in Italy, the success of Highmast speaks to the professionalism and determination of every person involved.”
Running from 3 to 14 November, Falcon Strike 25 features high-intensity training missions simulating real-world threats and coalition operations. UK assets including the F-35B Lightning, Voyager, and elements of the Carrier Strike Group are contributing to the joint exercise.
