What is a core mission of the RAF?

The core mission of the RAF (Royal Air Force) revolves primarily around executing air superiority. This concept is fundamental to military operations as it ensures control of the airspace, which is essential for the success of ground and naval forces. Air superiority enables the RAF to protect its own forces while denying enemy forces the ability to effectively operate in the air. This mission involves a combination of strategic planning, advanced aerial combat capabilities, and coordinated operations that include both offensive and defensive tactics to achieve dominance in the air.

While conducting space operations, providing humanitarian aid, and engaging in cyber warfare are important tasks that various branches of military and governmental organizations may undertake, they do not encompass the central focus of the RAF's role. Instead, air superiority directly supports the RAF's broader objectives, such as strategic defense and the protection of UK interests both at home and abroad. Thus, maintaining air superiority underpins many of the other capabilities the RAF can offer, highlighting its significance within military strategy.