Four RAF Top Guns have become ‘aces’ after destroying at least five Iranian drones from the skies over the Middle East since the war began.
This honor was awarded to the Crack Gunners of the RAF Regiment for the first time in the unit’s history after they shot down enemy aircraft in defense of British bases and personnel.
It comes after Iran targeted the British headquarters, carried out a drone attack on RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus on March 1 and fired missiles at UK-US operated Diego Garcia.
The ‘ace’ title is based on a similar World War II definition – and is awarded to a pilot if they shoot down five or more enemy aircraft, including drones.
The RAF has led the mission to protect troops, equipment and bases – using state-of-the-art Rapid Sentry air defense systems equipped with lightweight multirole missiles – since Iran began attacking Western targets.
Sources said RAF gunners are using “swarm” techniques to combat threats including unmanned aircraft and drones.
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An RAF regimental gunner ‘ace’ said: “We are all RAF gunners – some are 18 years old, many of us have more than five confirmed appointments, and some have only had eight months’ training.
“We are proud to represent the next generation of CORE.
“Under constant threat, we are responsible for locating, tracking and attacking targets, often while under fire, but we continue to load and operate equipment even as missiles fall around us.
“We take great pride in our role. Working long hours, demanding change in high-pressure situations, we remain focused, determined and flexible.”
And Armed Forces Minister Al Carnes MP said: “Our teams across the Middle East are working brilliantly in some of the most demanding circumstances imaginable, and they are acting with professionalism, courage and real warfare skills.
“I am very proud of our RAF Regiment.
“Night after night, under threat, they are protecting British lives and British interests, and doing so in the finest traditions of the RAF Regiment.
“Many of these heroes have achieved ‘ace’ status by disabling Iranian drones. The first of their kind, this is not just impressive, it is extraordinary.
“In the UK we don’t say it enough, but thank you for your service.”
