Image: First Rivet Joint Aircraft Lands at RAF Waddington MOD 45156408

Description: The UK's first Rivet Joint surveillance aircraft is pictured landing at RAF Waddington in November 2013. The first three Rivet Joint signals intelligence aircraft has been delivered to the UK ahead of its entry into service with the RAF next year. The aircraft will form part of project AIRSEEKER, which will provide the UK with a world class capability able to provide real time on scene intelligence, surveillance and analysis to forces in the air and on the ground. The Boeing RC-135V/W RIVET JOINT system has a proven track record, having been used by the United Stated Air Force for many years. Since 2011, the RAF's 51 Squadron have been training and operating alongside their USAF colleagues in preparation for the UK aircraft entering service in late 2014. UK crews have already achieved in excess of 32,000 flying hours and 1800 sorties as part of the US 55th Reconnaissance Wing. Organization: ROYAL AIR FORCE Object Name: WAD-UNC-20131112-0871-011 Category: MOD Supplemental Categories: Equipment, Aircraft, ISTAR, Rivet Joint Keywords: RAF, Royal Air Force, Waddington, RAF Waddington, RIVET JOINT, RC-135V/W, AIRSEEKER, Equipment, Aircraft, Surveillance, RC-135, Signals, Intelligence Country: England
Title: First Rivet Joint Aircraft Lands at RAF Waddington MOD 45156408
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Author: SAC Blake Carruthers
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