In the current operational environment, RAF Regiment gunners are countering uncrewed aerial systems, hostile drones, and complex swarming threats. Officials said these engagements represent a new form of air combat conducted within ground-based air defence systems.
“We are all Gunners—some as young as 18, many of us with over five confirmed engagements, and some just eight months out of training. We are proud to represent the next generation of the Corps,” personnel said. “Under constant threat, we are responsible for detecting, tracking and engaging targets, often while coming under fire but we continue to load and operate equipment even as missiles land around us.”
“This is our fight, and we take immense pride in our role. Working long, demanding shifts in high-pressure conditions, we remain focused, determined, and resilient,” they added.
Operators are working within layered radar and sensor networks, supported by electronic warfare and kinetic systems. The RAF said these teams operate under direct threat, with incoming fire impacting around their positions during engagements.
Multiple personnel have surpassed the five-engagement threshold, in some cases within a single night. Officials said the conditions reflect a high-tempo operational environment requiring rapid identification and response.
“Since the outset of the conflict in late February 2026, RAF Regiment personnel—supported by Royal Air Force engineers and air surveillance officers—have been at the forefront of countering persistent one way attack UAV threats to UK and Allied personnel, infrastructure, and assets in the Middle East,” said Richard Maughan.
“During the 23rd and 24th of March, RAF Regiment gunners operating within a ground based counter UAS unit delivered the most effective defensive outcome achieved in a single night to date, underscoring the Regiment’s central role in force protection within a high threat environment,” he said.
“Our Gunners are key to these actions, demonstrating the professionalism, vigilance, and composure expected of RAF Regiment personnel conducting self defence engagements under pressure,” he added.
The RAF said the term “Ace” is no longer formally used, but noted that current operational achievements reflect comparable standards. The milestone highlights the evolving nature of air defence and the role of ground-based operators in modern conflict.
“Our deployed gunners are showing outstanding courage to defend deployed UK personnel, allies, and partners every day. They are genuinely putting their own lives at risk in the defence of others; as their Commandant General, I am extremely proud of their professionalism and self-sacrifice being displayed by these amazing people,” said Paul Hamilton.
Officials said the achievement underscores the contribution of RAF Regiment personnel to force protection in high-threat environments. The development reflects broader changes in how air superiority is maintained in modern warfare.
Source: Royal Air Force (RAF).
