RAF chief warns of 'most perilous' era for 35 years

New leader's alarm over multiplying conflicts

- By James Knuckey

THE new head of the Royal Air Force has warned the current state of global affairs marks the “most perilous” period since the end of the Cold War.

Air Chief Marshal Harv Smyth said the UK faces “multiple and multiplying threats”, citing issues including the Ukraine war and a “status quo reset” in the Middle East.

In his first speech as chief of the air staff, Smyth said the “world has changed” as he stressed the UK must be ready to meet new challenges.

The former Harrier pilot warned of new alliances forming and voiced particular concern over Beijing.