An RAF fighter pilot, who chose to remain anonymous for security reasons, described his recent mission of shooting down two Iranian drones over Jordan as “just like training.” Flying an F-35B alongside two Typhoon jets, the pilot detected the drones on radar and successfully destroyed them using AMRAAM air-to-air missiles.
This mission marked the first operational kill by a British F-35B pilot, highlighting the advanced capabilities of the UK’s most lethal warplane. The pilot emphasized the focus required during the engagement, stating that the moment was less about exhilaration and more about precision and responsibility.
Following the shootdown, the pilot and his team enjoyed a quiet celebration with an ice-cold beer at sunrise in Cyprus before returning to duty. He acknowledged the high operational tempo at RAF Akrotiri, where drone threats have been increasing, including a recent kamikaze drone strike that caused damage to a hangar housing US U2 spy planes.
READ MORE: Bibury: The Cotswolds Village Touted as England’s Most Beautiful
READ MORE: I Tried Waitrose’s Sell-Out Blonde Chocolate Croissant Easter Egg — Here’s What to Expect
He explained the differences between the drones he engaged and the kamikaze drones, though without divulging specific details. The ever-present threat keeps the base on high alert, with pilots and personnel vigilant to prevent any hostile incursions.
Despite the intensity of the mission, the pilot maintains a professional outlook. “It’s not a euphoric sense of success,” he said. “I just get out of the way and get back to doing the job again.” When asked about celebrating, he mentioned a brief toast before rest, mindful of ongoing operational demands.