Operation Shader (counter-Daesh), RAF contribution from Cyprus
Operation Shader is the UK contribution to the campaign against Daesh in Iraq and Syria, running since 2014. The Commons Library says RAF combat aircraft fly from Cyprus for it. It adds that transport, air-to-air refuelling and reconnaissance aircraft also operate from the Cyprus bases. Forces News reported on 30 September 2026 that the coalition mission inside Iraq had ended and UK personnel had left Iraq. It said Operation Shader would continue as a partnership with Iraq rather than an in-country operation.
- Where
- Cyprus, RAF Akrotiri
- When
- ongoing
- Units
- RAF combat, refuelling, transport and reconnaissance aircraft; No. 83 Expeditionary Air Group
- With
- Iraq, Global Coalition against Daesh
- Last checked
- 4 Nov 2026
Sources
- UK forces in the Middle East region House of Commons Library, 3 Aug 2026
- Operation Shader to continue but coalition to end in Iraq as UK and US troops withdraw Forces News (BFBS), 30 Sept 2026
