A GERMAN squadron is operating out of an RAF base as part of a multi-national exercise to test the operational capability of its pilots on Tornado jets.

Tactical Air Force Wing 51 Immelmann has been deployed to RAF Leeming, near Bedale, as part of Exercise Joint Warrior, a UK exercise open to NATO allies and partners.

The squadron was named in honour of Germany's first air ace of the First World War, Max Immelmann, who renounced his British nationality before scoring 17 victories until his death in 1916.

Joint Warrior is one of the largest multinational exercises of its kind in Europe, providing coordinated training for all three UK Armed Services and numerous units from invited allied nations.

The German contingent at RAF Leeming includes 139 aircrew, engineers and support personnel deployed there for two weeks.

Lieutenant Colonel Christian Lienemann, Immelmann squadron's commanding officer, said it had been working on low level flying and suppressing surface to air missiles.

RAF Leeming’s Station Commander, Group Captain David Bradshaw said: “It is always a great pleasure to welcome international visitors to RAF Leeming, particularly our long term allies from the German Air Force with whom we train on a regular basis.

"The simultaneous detachment of RAF Typhoons to Leeming has made for a very busy two-week period and I would like to thank the local community for their continued understanding and support.”