RAF Regiment gunners have become the first-ever drone ‘aces’ after shooting down five or more Iranian drones during operations in the Middle East. The title, rooted in Second World War tradition for pilots who downed five enemy aircraft, now reflects modern aerial defence.
Operating a complex system of early-warning sensors, electronic warfare, and the state-of-the-art Rapid Sentry air defence system armed with Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM), the four personnel achieved the distinction while protecting British interests, partners, and personnel.
One gunner said: “We are all RAF Gunners—some as young as 18, many of us with over five confirmed engagements, and some just eight months out of training. Under constant threat, we are responsible for detecting, tracking and engaging targets, often while coming under fire.”
Minister for the Armed Forces Al Carns MP said: “Our teams across the Middle East are operating in some of the most demanding conditions imaginable… Several of these heroes have achieved ‘ace’ status neutralising Iranian drones. The first of its kind, it isn’t just impressive, it is exceptional.”
Wing Commander Richard Maughan, Officer Commanding No. 2 Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems Wing, noted that during March 23–24, gunners delivered the most effective defensive outcome in a single night to date.
Air Cdre Paul Hamilton, Commander Global Enablement, added: “Our deployed gunners are showing outstanding courage… they are genuinely putting their own lives at risk in the defence of others.”
The achievement follows the Defence Secretary’s announcement that the UK will deploy Rapid Sentry to Kuwait to bolster air defence against Iranian attacks. The MOD also confirmed plans to procure additional LMMs, manufactured by Thales UK in Belfast, which have proven highly capable in the region.
The defensive actions align with UK policy to protect British people and interests while avoiding wider conflict.
