A dramatic spectacle unfolded in Dorset’s skies as a plane which operates from Brize Norton refuelled a Typhoon warplane.
Amateur photographer Paul Dibben was on hand to witness and capture the scene of the RAF's Voyager 'Vespina' connecting with the fighter jet.
Mr Dibben said: "I saw the RAF tanker / VIP transport Vespina grazing the moon this whilst refuelling a quick response Typhoon flight over Sherborne."
Vespina, revamped in 2020, is primarily used for VIP transport, catering to government officials and royalty, including the Prime Minister.
It also functions as a refuelling tanker like all Voyagers in the RAF fleet.
It can haul a total fuel load of 111 tonnes and dispense 50,000 kilograms of fuel through under-wing hose and drogue refuelling pods.
It boasts state-of-the-art features including a secure satellite communications system, missile detection, 58 business-class seats in the front cabin, and 100 'premium economy' seats in the rear cabin.
The Typhoon jet being refuelled is part of a quick response squadron tasked with addressing potential threats like rogue aircraft hovering around or on the edge of UK airspace.
In 2021 Vespina undertook a royal assignment, flying Charles and Camilla, then the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, to Jordan as part of their royal tour.
The journey used a blend of sustainable aviation fuel for more environmentally friendly travel.
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