Aircraft based at RAF Brize Norton are playing a key role in carrying out the ongoing evacuation operation of British citizens from Sudan.
The aircraft from the RAF’s Air Mobility Force, including C-17 Globemaster, A400M Atlas, and C-130J Hercules, have been flying sorties from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus to Sudan to carry out the critical evacuation operation.
In addition, the Air Mobility Force aircraft have also been operating between RAF Brize Norton and RAF Akrotiri to ensure the support force, of over 1500 UK Armed Forces personnel, was positioned ready to conduct the operation on the UK Government’s orders, and that it continues to remain appropriately supported.
“The ability of the Air Mobility Force, and all our associated supporting units, to conduct this operation with such pace and precision, demonstrates our flexibility and agility to utilise air power at range, at a moment’s notice, to protect UK citizens anywhere across the World. This is especially true as the RAF are concurrently supporting other critical operations such as for Ukraine and across the Middle East. I’m immensely proud of our team, who continue to pull out all the stops and have been brilliant throughout”.
Deputy Commander Operations of the RAF, Air Marshal Harv Smyth
The evacuation flights are being carried out by A400M Atlas and C-130J Hercules aircraft flying from Wadi Seidna north of Khartoum. After arriving at Larnaca Airport in Cyprus, evacuees are then returning to the UK on board FCDO chartered aircraft. Concurrently RAF C-17 Globemaster aircraft have been conducting sorties carrying equipment to Sudan and the wider region to support the ongoing operations.
In addition to these vital sorties, the RAF has also deployed members of Number 1 Squadron, RAF Regiment to provide security at landing sites in Sudan, alongside RAF Police to assist the evacuees. Air Movements personnel have also deployed to manage logistics, and 24/7 command and control is being supported by Number 11 Group at HQ Air Command in Buckinghamshire.
As part of the initial sorties RAF Voyager aircraft transported elements of 16 Air Assault Brigade to Cyprus, together with additional RAF personnel to augment the British Forces already based on the island. The RAF have also deployed additional support including chefs from 3 Mobile Catering Squadron, medics from the Tactical Medical Wing and communication technicians from 90 Signals Unit.
