For many years, the Aviation PhotoCrew has enjoyed a strong relationship with RAF Lakenheath, resulting in numerous air-to-air join-ups with USAF assets. This season, in close cooperation with the Liberty Wing, we organised a dedicated one-day project focused entirely on American airpower. Thanks to the support of our host, callsign “Evil”, the Skyvan photoship was granted the rare privilege of landing and operating directly from Lakenheath itself—an exceptional opportunity and one not taken lightly.

The first photomission set the tone immediately. The Skyvan joined up with the MC-130, one of the rarest Hercules variants seen in Europe and an aircraft seldom encountered outside major events such as RIAT. This was followed by an air-to-air session with the CV-22 Osprey, whose unique tilt-rotor design never fails to impress. The Osprey crew expertly presented the aircraft from multiple angles, allowing photographers to capture both helicopter- and fixed-wing configurations using the Skyvan’s distinctive vantage points.

Operational reality, as always, shaped the day. An emergency prevented the first F-15E Strike Eagle join-up, and last-minute tasking ruled out participation by the KC-135. However, the time on the ground was far from lost. Pilots delivered in-depth presentations on the operational capabilities of both the F-15E and the F-35, offering valuable insight straight from those who fly the aircraft daily—a rare bonus for the photographers involved.

The highlight came during the second flight, when the weather allowed a spectacular four-ship formation to take to the skies: two F-15E Strike Eagles flying alongside two F-35 Lightning IIs. The formation delivered a dynamic sequence of fly-bys, close-ups, and break manoeuvres, giving photographers a wealth of opportunities to capture modern USAF combat power in coordinated flight.

Although weather conditions remained challenging throughout the day, the project concluded on a high note. Successfully flying and photographing such a diverse range of USAFE assets from Lakenheath itself was an achievement in its own right. Plans are already in motion to continue this tradition in future seasons, ideally once again in the days leading up to RIAT. With better weather on order, we look forward to returning to fly with our friends from Lakenheath and Mildenhall. Go Liberty Wing!