RAF fleet grounded after electrical fault identified

RAF surveillance aircraft being used in the fight against so-called Islamic State have been grounded following the discovery of an electrical fault.

The incident included a fleet of six Sentry E-3D, two of which were assigned to help the air campaign in Syria and Iraq. The fault was discovered during routine technical inspections.

The two Sentry aircraft had been providing airborne co-ordination as part of the operation against ISIL, and were helping to prevent other coalition aircraft coming into conflict with each other.

An RAF spokesman commented: "As a result of routine technical inspections on RAF E-3D Sentry aircraft, an issue has been identified relating to the integrity of some electrical wiring and cabin conditioning systems.

"Safety remains our paramount concern, therefore, the UK Sentry fleet will only fly again once the ongoing rectification work is complete."