The Royal Air Force (RAF) maintains a strategic network of overseas bases, known as Permanent Joint Operating Bases (PJOBs), located in British Overseas Territories. These installations are integral to the UK’s defense strategy, ensuring rapid deployment capabilities and supporting global military operations.
RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus
Situated within the Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia, RAF Akrotiri serves as a pivotal staging post for British military endeavors in the Middle East. Operated by the Cyprus Operations Support Unit (COSU), it hosts No. 903 Expeditionary Air Wing, established in December 2014 to support operations such as Operation Shader. Additionally, No. 84 Squadron operates Puma HC2 helicopters from this base.
RAF Ascension Island
Known as Wideawake Airfield, RAF Ascension Island functions primarily as a transit point for flights between RAF Brize Norton in the UK and RAF Mount Pleasant in the Falkland Islands. The base also supports the United States Space Force (USSF) and NASA in communications and satellite tracking.
RAF Gibraltar
RAF Gibraltar operates as a strategic airfield and shares its facilities with Gibraltar International Airport. The base plays a crucial role in supporting NATO operations and serves as a logistical hub for military aircraft transiting the region.
RAF Mount Pleasant, Falkland Islands
Established in 1985 following the Falklands War, RAF Mount Pleasant is central to the defense of the South Atlantic Overseas Territories. It houses No. 905 Expeditionary Air Wing, equipped with Typhoon FGR4 aircraft, a Voyager KC2, and an A400M Atlas, alongside civilian-operated support and search and rescue helicopters.
Remote Radar Heads in the Falkland Islands
The Falkland Islands are further secured by Remote Radar Heads (RRHs) at locations including Mount Kent, Byron Heights, and Mount Alice. These installations form an early warning and airspace control network, enhancing the UK’s situational awareness in the region.
RAF Troodos, Cyprus
Beyond the PJOBs, the RAF operates RAF Troodos in Cyprus, a signals intelligence gathering and radar station located in the Troodos Mountains. Operated by Golf Section of the Joint Service Signal Unit (Cyprus), it plays a vital role in regional surveillance and intelligence operations.
Donnelly Lines, United Arab Emirates
In March 2024, the UK inaugurated Donnelly Lines, a permanent military facility within Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates. This establishment enhances the UK’s operational capabilities in the Middle East, providing a base for No. 906 Expeditionary Air Wing, which supports air transport and refueling missions.
