The Firebirds Today

An integral unit of the Air & Space Warfare Centre at RAF Waddington, 56 Squadron contributes to the operational development and optimisation of the Royal Air Force's command and control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (Air C2ISR) capabilities. This is primarily achieved through the management, conduct and independent oversight of through-life flight and ground trials. Comprised of experienced operators and operational analysts, with experience from a variety of Air C2ISR systems, the Squadron is also an invaluable source of specialist expert advice.

The Squadron works closely with 92 Squadron to ensure that test and evaluation developments are integrated with tactical development, and in close collaboration with the UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory.

56 Sqn Mission

To deliver assured capability to the ISTAR Force via timely, impartial and authoritative advice, maximising support to the warfighter.

In delivering risk-aware T&E, 56 Sqn will prioritise:

  1. Support to new capabilities.
  2. Improving extant support and process (including training system / work-ups and collaboration).
  3. Growth of TP and supervisory cadres.

Squadron Organisation:

56 Sqn North T&E Flight - 56 Sqn North, so named for their geographic dislocation from 56 Sqn HQ, is based primarily at RAF Lossiemouth. This TEF is 56 Squadron's focal point for expertise in ground motion target indicator (GMTI) radar and synthetic aperture radar technologies, Airborne Early Warning and Control, and maritime patrol and reconnaissance. The TEF's work currently focuses on the P-8 Poseidon and E-7 Wedgetail platforms, systems, and sensors.

RC-135 Rivet Joint T&E Flight - The RC-135 RJ TEF has an overall responsibility for the provision of expertise and capability evaluation of the RC-135 RJ aircraft and its onboard UK Airborne Electronic Sensor systems. This includes detailed coordination with USAF test and procurement programmes.

Protector T&E Flight - The Protector TEF acts as a focal point for remotely piloted air systems (RPAS), currently focused on the MQ-9B RG Mk1 Protector, and providing trial support and expertise to facilitate its entry into UK service

Shadow T&E Flight - The Shadow TEF provides expertise and evaluation of the Shadow R1 aircraft and its associated suite of sensors and systems. This work supports frontline capabilities exercised by 14 Sqn.

Intelligence and Space Exploitation (ISX) T&E Flight - The ISX TEF comprises Intelligence and Space specialists who support through-life test and evaluation of MOD intelligence exploitation and space capabilities. The Flight also applies its skills to the wide range of activities encompassed by C2ISR.

Note: Images taken from raf.mod.uk website and 56 Squadron archives, UK Crown copyright.

Last update 24 July 2025.