Massive 'dogfight' unfolds in skies over Britain

Exercise Cobra Warrior 26-2 has brought large simulated air battles to British skies as the Royal Air Force and allied participants test complex collective operations. Running from September 7 to October 3, the training includes fixed-wing and rotary aircraft operating in contested and degraded conditions across designated areas. Crews practise integrating sensors, weapons, command systems and multiple national forces rather than conducting an actual hostile engagement. The exercise is designed to rehearse homeland defence and high-intensity joint warfighting, with unusual activity reflecting planned training routes and scenarios.