The work of the Royal Air Force has been showcased in a series of dramatic photographs.

The images, which won awards in the RAF’s photographic competition, feature military personnel and aircraft in operation around the world.

Senior Aircraftman (SAC) Graham Taylor from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire received the Photographer of the Year prize.

His portfolio included shots of Typhoon jets at sunset and under the stars during a training exercise in the Middle East.

He also caught flames emerging from a Spitfire in the RAF Memorial Flight as it performed a “hot start”.

SAC Taylor said: “It was a massive shock but I’m very honoured to have won.

“I’m delighted to be recognised and to be able to showcase my work and the role of the Typhoon force and RAF Coningsby in defending the UK.”

SAC Andy Masson from RAF Marham, Norfolk, scooped the Photograph of the Year prize for his image of a Tornado flying over The Shard in London during the Queen’s birthday flypast.

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Pulford presented the winners with their awards during a ceremony at London’s RAF Club.

He said: “The competition entries this year are once again of the highest quality and showcase not only the abilities of our Royal Air Force photographers but also the tremendous span of operations our people and equipment conduct.

“These dynamic images reflect the extensive breadth of Royal Air Force life, the critical contribution that our personnel are making to UK defence and operations around the world.”

Visit www.raf.mod.uk to view all the winning photographs.

A Typhoon of 3(F)Sqn, RAF Coningsby, as the sun drops behind the Middle-Eastern desert landscape during a multi-national training exercise. Photo: SAC Graham Taylor/PA

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