In August 2005, XXV(F) Sqn attempted to transit 3x Tornado F3 direct Leeming to Akrotiri configured with 2 x 1500lt tanks on the shoulder pylons and 2 x 2250lt tanks fitted to the underwing pylons. Getting airborne from Leeming at 30 minute intervals with the 1500lt tanks empty, the F3s filled to full from a VC10 operating a tac towline just south of the Isle of Wight before entering French airspace at Drake.
During the transit over the Med, stronger than forecast headwinds meant the F3s would not make Akrotiri with the mandated Fuel on the Ground, so all three dropped into Souda Bay for a quick refill (not all the external tanks) before continuing to Cyprus.