Stunning photographs of RAF aircraft in action, life in the cockpit and sporting battles are among the winners and runners-up of the 2026 Royal Air Force Photographic Competition.
Impressive pictures ranging from flights over Norwegian fjords to sparring in the boxing ring feature among the winners and runners-up of the 2026 Royal Air Force Photographic Competition.
The main award of RAF Visual Communicator of the Year was won by Sgt ‘Matty’ Matthews, based at RAF VisCom Ops, with his portfolio of six images and one video submission.
His work includes a poignant Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and an interior cockpit image of an A400M transport aircraft flying into Helsinki airport.
Other winners included Air Specialist (Class 1) Jason in the RAF Feature category, who captured pictures of a Chinook flying over a UK motorway, and Air Specialist (Class 1) Nile, who came first in RAF Sports with a picture of a boxing night held at RAF Brize Norton.
Eleven judges found themselves spending close to a week narrowing down their final choices from over a thousand images.
The RAF said: “The RAF Photographic Competition showcases the skill, dedication, and spirit of our people. From aircraft in action to life on the ground, every shot tells a story. Our photographers captured some incredible moments this year.”
The 11 submission categories are RAF Photographer of the year, RAF Feature, RAF Sports, Video, long form, Video short form, People, The Mallett Student Trophy, Photographic Section Portfolio, RAF Operations and Exercises, Current RAF Equipment, Amateur.
5. RAF Photographic Competition 2026
Image by Mr Andrew called 'Sisters in Service''. This image was entered into Category A - People, and placed highly commended. Photo: / SWNS
6. RAF Photographic Competition 2026.
People's Choice finalist. Image by Sgt Matty. A set of six images and one video were also entered into Category F - RAF Visual Communicator of the Year and placed First. Photo: / SWNS
7. RAF Photographic Competition 2026.
Image by AS1 Emily, called 'Into the blue' This image was entered into Category C - Current Equipment and placed First. Photo: / SWNS
8. RAF Photographic Competition 2026.
Image by AS1 Eleanor, called 'In The Wheelbase''. This image was entered into Category A - People, and placed highly commended. Photo: / SWNS