Moray-based fighter jets are poised to reach new heights after successful trials of new radar-guided missiles.
The weapons system – called Meteor – was deployed by an RAF Typhoon aircraft at the Hebrides testing range.
The trials, carried out by defence contractor BAE Systems, saw the jets fire against various real air targets in a series of mocked-up scenarios.
In action, Meteor is designed to be used against long-range, moving targets, such as fast jets, as well small, unmanned vehicles and cruise missiles.
It would be capable of operating in any weather, day or night.
Two RAF Lossiemouth squadrons are expected to have the technology installed over the next two years.
The trials formed part of a wider flight test programme, which is focussed on improving long-distance attack capabilities for RAF jets.
BAE Systems test pilot Nat Makepeace, who flew the aircraft, said it was “exciting” times for the Typhoon.
He said: “The missile separated very cleanly and guided very successfully towards its target maintaining a datalink communication between the weapon and the aircraft.
“This year is undoubtedly one of the most exciting years I have experienced in the development of Typhoon.
“We are taking to the skies with upgraded software, trialling new night vision helmet technologies, developing and expanding weapons capabilities and looking forward to flying the Captor E-scan radar – all in the space of one year.”
The Typhoon is already regarded as one of the world’s leading swing-role combat aircraft, and the addition of the Meteor weapon will bolster that reputation.
The flight trials were supported by contractors QinetiQ, MBDA and Selex, and form part of a contract to fully integrate the Meteor missile onto Typhoon by 2017.