Typhoon Jets Arrive at RAF Northolt for Olympics Role

Typhoon fighter jets arrived at RAF Northolt today to take part in a major military exercise to test security for the forthcoming London Olympic Games. 


This is the first time fighter planes have been stationed at RAF Northolt since the Second World War. 

The jets' arrival marks the start of specialist training which will result in increased flying activity over London and the Home Counties. 


Codenamed Olympic Guardian, the nine-day exercise will put airmen, soldiers and sailors through their paces in the skies over the South East. The exercise runs from 2 to 10 May, and it is likely that people will notice an increase in highly visible air activity (particularly on 5 and 6 May). 

The exercise will test the procedures military aircrews will use to intercept and communicate with aircraft breaching restricted airspace during the Olympics, and the actions they must take in response. Pilots entering restricted airspace can expect to be intercepted by Typhoon fighters or military helicopters.


The air security plan for the Olympic Games builds on the Royal Air Force's existing defence of UK airspace, which includes round-the-clock radar surveillance and Typhoon fighters held at high readiness every day of the year.

The exercise integrates the additional forces being used to ensure the safety of the Olympics, as part of the Ministry of Defence's role to ensure a safe and secure Games this summer.