CDR had the opportunity to embed with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) during Exercise COBRA WARRIOR from September 15 to October 3, 2025. The three weeks of high-intensity multinational air operations was hosted by Royal Air Force (RAF) Station Waddington in the United Kingdom.

COBRA WARRIOR is the Royal Air Force’s largest multinational air exercise, designed to train participants in complex, large-force tactical air warfighting operations. The exercise involved over 160 RCAF personnel, CF-188 Hornet fighters from 3 Wing Bagotville, and a CC-130HT Hercules air-to-air refueller from 435 Squadron all deployed as part of Operation REASSURANCE.

Canadian aviators flew alongside more than 60 allied aircraft, honing their skills in simulated large force employment combat scenarios, filling the roles of defensive and offensive counter-air, air interdiction and air-to-air refueling.

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“COBRA WARRIOR is a brilliant exercise and one of the most complex and largest in Europe,” said Group Captain Paul Hanson, Head of Operation and Training, Air and Space Warfare Center, RAF. “It provides an excellent opportunity for the UK to bring our allies together so we can train and prepare for joint operations. This exercise not only allows us to train alongside one another, but also strengthens cooperation, interoperability, and teamwork.”

The exercise served as a proving ground for tactical leadership development, where three RCAF fighter pilots graduated as Mission Commanders, a key milestone in the RCAF’s progression as tactical leaders within NATO’s air power framework.