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History and Technology

Introduction

Formed in 1918, the RAF is the oldest independent air force in the world. Today, it’s both one of the largest and most technically advanced.

With Altitude, you can be among the first to hear about new RAF technologies, uncover exciting periods of RAF history and hear personal stories from real RAF personnel.

We’ll be adding new features and stories to this section, so be sure to visit regularly to find out what’s new.

Tornado F3

Tornado


The Tornado F3 is one of the RAF’s finest defence aircraft – dedicated to keeping the UK safe. It’s capable of operation in all weathers and at night, using night-vision goggles.

TORNADO F3

Merlin HC3

Merlin HC3


The Merlin HC3 is the first of a new generation of highly advanced support helicopters used by the RAF. It can fly in any weather, day or night, and is used in both tactical and strategic operations.

MERLIN HC3

Inside the Chinook

Chinook


Find out why this double-rotor work horse has seen action in nearly every major RAF operation of the last 25 years.

INSIDE THE CHINOOK

RAF Museum

DECORATION.


See RAF aircraft, missiles, rockets and more in one of the biggest collections in the world. Plus, find out what it feels like to be a Red Arrows pilot.

RAF MUSEUM

Spitfire vs Typhoon

DECORATION.


How does the classic World War II fighter compare with the RAF’s state-of-the art jet, the Eurofighter Typhoon?

SPITFIRE VS TYPHOON

Now and then

DECORATION.


Read or listen to our special interview which highlights the first-hand experiences and contrasting worlds of an RAF World War II veteran and a member of today’s RAF.

NOW AND THEN