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RAF successfully completes NATO skills test

Published on: 18 Mar 2020

A 600-strong team of RAF personnel has successfully completed an evaluation by NATO to confirm it is ready to support the alliance under whatever circumstances it deems necessary.

The test was carried out earlier this month at RAF Leeming and involved men and women from 135 Expeditionary Air Wing, including Typhoon squadrons.

Known as CAPEVAL, the test featured everything from air policing and simulated chemical attacks to nuclear weapons and warfighting in order to ensure personnel are prepared for the most challenging conditions possible.

It was the largest single RAF deployment since the launch of Operation HERRICK in Iraq in 2003.

Chief of the air staff Air Chief Marshal Mike Wigston said: The successful CAPEVAL outcome proves the RAF's ability to deploy a potent fighting force and reinforces the RAF's and the UK's commitment to NATO."

In November last year, RAF Typhoons were sent to Iceland as part of NATO's Icelandic Air Policing Mission.