RAF Typhoon fighter jets have taken part in a French nuclear air exercise for the first time, escorting French Rafale aircraft during a simulated nuclear strike mission over the Mediterranean, the Ministry of Defence confirmed on 23 October 2026.
The operation, named Exercise Rummy, took place on 20–21 October. French aircraft departed Saint-Dizier Air Base in northeastern France, with British Typhoons providing escort during the simulated mission. No nuclear weapons were involved.
First British participation in a French nuclear air exercise
The Ministry of Defence described the exercise as a step forward in UK–French defence cooperation. It was designed to improve coordination between the two air forces and demonstrate how they can operate together in support of European security.
British Typhoons provided conventional fighter escort; they did not carry nuclear weapons or conduct a nuclear strike. The French Rafales simulated the strike element of the operation.
Ministers highlight closer defence cooperation
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said the exercise marked a new chapter in the two countries’ nuclear defence relationship and reflected their shared responsibility for Euro-Atlantic security.
French Armed Forces Minister Catherine Vautrin said that maintaining independent nuclear forces did not prevent the two countries from coordinating their activities.
Northwood Declaration sets the framework
The exercise follows the Northwood Declaration, agreed by Britain and France in July 2025. That agreement established a framework for deeper cooperation between their nuclear deterrents, including coordination on policy, capabilities and operations.
Both countries continue to retain sovereign, independent nuclear forces and national decision-making. Participation in this exercise does not establish joint control over either country’s nuclear weapons or a shared launch authority.
The Government has linked the exercise to its wider defence programme, including investment in nuclear submarines and other deterrent capabilities. However, the exercise itself was a training simulation rather than an operational nuclear deployment.
Why the exercise matters
The UK and France are Europe’s two nuclear-armed NATO allies. Their governments have sought closer defence coordination amid continuing concerns about European security and Russia’s war against Ukraine. The first British participation in a French nuclear air exercise demonstrates one practical aspect of that cooperation without changing the independent status of either deterrent.
Sources: UK Ministry of Defence, 23 October 2026; Northwood Declaration, 10 July 2025; Reuters, 23 October 2026.