Nimrod R1 replacement arrives at RAF Waddington

RAF Waddington has welcomed the first of three Rivet Joint aircraft, set to replace the Nimrod R1 spy planes that retired in 2011. The Rivet Joint, operated by the RAF’s 51 Squadron, will deliver real-time intelligence to both air and ground forces, significantly enhancing the UK’s airborne surveillance capabilities. After three years of preparation and training alongside the United States Air Force, the 51 Squadron is ready to deploy the aircraft in 2014, marking a new era in the squadron’s distinguished history.

The Rivet Joint will be crewed by 24 specialists, including pilots, navigators, engineers, and operators, reflecting its advanced surveillance capabilities. This new aircraft replaces the Nimrod R1, which had been stationed at RAF Waddington since 1995 and was instrumental in various missions, including those over Libya shortly before its decommissioning. The arrival of the Rivet Joint signifies a pivotal upgrade for the RAF, ensuring continued excellence in intelligence gathering and maintaining the UK’s strategic edge in global operations. Read More