The Royal Air Force, commonly known as RAF, is the aerial warfare service branch of the United Kingdom armed forces. Established in 1918, it was the first independent air force in the world. The RAF's primary role is to protect the UK and its interests through air power, which includes combat operations, surveillance, and humanitarian missions. The RAF operates a variety of aircraft, including fighter jets like the Eurofighter Typhoon and transport planes such as the A400M Atlas. It also plays a crucial role in international peacekeeping and disaster relief efforts, collaborating with other military forces and organizations around the globe.