RAF Wittering issues notice over "fast jet" activity at night
There will be an increase in aircraft activity over RAF Wittering from tonight (Tuesday, September 4) due to a training exercise on the go at the base.
A RAF Wittering spokesman said the exercise, which takes place over three nights from 9.30pm to 10.30pm each night, involved Typhoon aircraft and the Rapier missile system.
"The Typhoons are posing as enemy aircraft in the exercise involving the Rapier missile system, which is a ground-to-air system run by the army," he said.
The training, which will go on until Thursday night, forms part of a "pre-deployment exercise".
"It is being held at night to minimise impact on our own aircraft training," said the spokesman.
"It shouldn't be below 2,000ft."
A message on the RAF Wittering Facebook page read: "Starting tonight, until Thursday there is potential for fast jet aircraft to be flying over Wittering.
"This is expected to take place between the hours of 2130 to 2230.
"We are reaching out to our neighbours in the nearby villages and equestrian establishments because the time and type of aircraft activity will be different from normal.
"The activity is expected to be complete by Friday morning."
The spokesman said they appreciated the support and understanding received from the surrounding community for these types of exercises.
"We are very heartened by the support we receive from the local community in relation to training and aircraft activity," he said.
According to online information, the Rapier missile system is capable of engaging supersonic, high-manoeuvrability aircraft.
It can be towed behind medium size vehicles and armoured personnel carriers.
It can also be deployed using transport aircraft or helicopters.