RAF Wedgetail AEW Mk1 new paint scheme revealed

The three aircraft will be operated by VIII Squadron from RAF Lossiemouth whose Arabian dagger badge appears on the tail fin. The dagger, known as a jambiya, was adopted in recognition of the unit’s long association with Arabia and is sheathed to symbolise the Squadron’s guardian duties.

On the nose is the shield of the NATO Airborne Early Warning and Control Force, reflecting the UK’s commitment to continue to provide the Alliance with air surveillance, command and control, aerospace battle management and communications.

“To see the jambiya of 8 Squadron and NATO Airborne Early Warning & Control Force shield brought to life on the Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning Mk1 livery reflects our continued commitment to NATO, and marks a significant step in delivery of this capability.”

Air Commodore Hicks, Wedgetail Programme Senior Responsible Owner

Wedgetail, which is being procured for the RAF by Defence Equipment and Support, provides long-range air surveillance and control of an area of operations.

It uses a Multi-role Electronically Scanned Array (MESA) Sensor and on-board passive systems to collect information to provide the crew with a real-time picture of aircraft and ships present across a broad area of responsibility. The crew use this information to provide direction and guidance to aircraft and commanders on the ground.