A pair of XXV(F) Sqn Panavia Tornado F.3s armed with AIM-120 AMRAAMs and ASRAAMs.

This view of two Tornado F.3s from XXV(F) Sqn provides a good view of the current air-to-air missiles operational with the type. Carried under the fuselage are beyond-visual-range AMRAAMs, while under the wings are shorter range ASRAAMs.

Despite being in the final years of its career with the RAF, the Tornado F.3 is now more capable than ever before. With a powerful radar, JTIDS datalink and ASRAAM and AMRAAM missiles, the F.3 is a potent fighter. Pictured are a pair of Tornado F.3s of XXV(F) Sqn, one of which is releasing decoy flares.

Although the Tornado F.3's normal operating environment is at altitude, crews also have to maintain currency at low-level to ensure they are proficient in all flight regimes.

This view of a XXV(F) Tornado F.3 clearly shows the maximum wing sweep of 67” which is employed for high speed flight. With the transfer of 24 Typhoons to Saudi Arabia that were destined for the RAF, the F.3 has received ‘a stay of execution' and is now expected to be retired from frontline service in 2011.

Pictured is a 41(R) Sqn Tornado F.3 from RAF Coningsby. This unit, formerly known as the Fast Jet and Weapons Operational Evaluation Unit, has been pivotal in the development of the F.3.

As well as two frontline squadrons, RAF Leuchars is also home to the operational conversion unit for the type, 56(R) Sqn.

This Tornado F.3 from 111(F) Sqn has been painted in special markings to celebrate the squadron’s 90th anniversary. This unit and 43(F) Sqn take turns to assign crews to the Northern QRA commitment from their home base of RAF Leuchars.

Four Tornado F.3s operated by 1435 Flight are based at RAF Mount Pleasant to protect the Falkland Islands from Argentine aggression. Aircrew from the UK-based F.3 squadrons are temporarily transferred to man this unit.