HELLO EVERYBODY AND WELCOME TO ANOTHER EXCELLENT EDITION OF ONETOONE, SHOWCASING THE PHENOMENAL ACHIEVEMENTS OF PEOPLE AT RAF CONINGSBY!
We have been fortunate to have all the flying Sqns at home over the spring, but as ever, the training, flying and delivery of Quick Reaction Alert does not cease as we continue to secure the skies of the UK. Since I last wrote, you will not have failed notice the Typhoon Display in work-up with Flt Lt Matt Brighty at the helm as the new display pilot. His display was approved by AOC 1Gp on the 18th of May alongside the displays of BBMF which also celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Dams Raids, Op CHASTISE, by flying over 34 Bomber Command bases in Lincolnshire as well as the RAF Museum at Hendon - on what was just the perfect evening to open the season and mark such a poignant event in our history.
As the weather improves, I see more people out on their bikes and runners readying for various distances of fundraising jogs! A number of the Personnel Support team ran the Lincoln 10K for the RAF Benevolent Fund and there is a growing number signing up for the 2023 RAFA Rides on the 17th of June which will raise a
significant amount of money for a charity very close to our hearts.
Throughout spring, Station personnel have continued to support other government departments, some deployed and others being held at readiness to bolster a number of public services. Operations Wing also worked alongside Derbyshire Civil Emergency Services at Carsington Water on a simulated crash exercise to test interoperability, communications, and command and control which was huge success and proved, yet again, the flexibility and professionalism of our people.
We have a huge amount to look forward to over the summer, not least the upcoming Kings Birthday Flypast which promises to be quite the spectacle following the disappointing weather on the day of His Majesty the King’s Coronation. The Station Families Day on the 28th of July will be even bigger and better than ever and is a huge opportunity for us to come together to celebrate our successes, reflect on the incredible things we achieve and show our families some of what we get up to. Although many will be deployed over the summer holiday period, those of us in the UK will also have the chance to take leave with friends and family. So, enjoy the great weather, don’t forget the suncream and see you in the Autumn!
17
from the Editor
THIS EDITION OF ONETOONE SEEMS
W
At the time of writing, the sun is beating down and it has been a very hot weekend. It was also nice weather for the Station ‘One Big Day’ which took place a couple of weeks ago. If you weren’t there you can read all about it on page 24. Summer is very much here everybody, it has been a long time coming and long may it last. A summer of sporting events is upon us, and if you have any sporting adventures to share with us, be them within the service or outside, submit your articles to CONGMB-121Editor@mod.gov.uk for inclusion in the future editions. Lastly, enjoy the weather, enjoy the magazine, and see you in Autumn!
On the evening of the 16th May 2023, the BBMF commemorated the 80th anniversary of Operation Chastise, commonly known as the Dambusters Raid.
09 TATCC
Lincolnshire Terminal Air Traffic Control Centre (TATCC) became fully operational in July 2022 when RAF Coningsby, RAF Waddington and RAF Cranwell radar control came together to control within one establishment.
10 XI(F) SQN
The new year at XI(F) Sqn has been a busy and varied one thus far, with the multinational Exercise COBRA WARRIOR, our R2 workup, deployment prep for Sweden and Malaysia, and even a brief visit to RAF Benson!
11 29 SQN
It has been a busy time at 29 Sqn as they continued to deliver Operational Conversion training whilst working up for the 2023 display season.
13 12 SQN
e have all our regular content but also a new feature that allows us all to get to know various faces around the Station. In this article you will meet the Station Imam, head to page 20 for that. If you want to be involved in the next ‘Meet ____’ article, get in touch and tell us all about yourself and section!Having returned to RAF Coningsby, following completion of the Typhoon Force’s single longest deployment to date, 12 Squadron has been settling back into the Coningsby Wing and supporting UKbased Operations.
14 3(F) SQN
With Op SHADER approaching for 3(F) Sqn we have taken advantage of some live weapon events. These include Paveway 4 bomb drops and strafe practice (firing the Mauser cannon live).
15 ALIC
The Air Land Integration (ALI) Cell had a very productive first quarter, participating in numerous deployments and training exercises to hone a wide range of skills; from core dismounted close combat to full spectrum Air Enablement as it aims high with Project HASTATI.
17 SILVER SIREN
onetoone ISSUE 2 2023 THE RAF CONINGSBY JOURNAL
A huge thanks to the team at RAF Coningsby who have helped JET deliver some memorable Blue Skies sessions this year.
20 MEET THE IMAM
Meet our Imam in the RAF – Imam Ali Omar.
21 PERSONAL SUPPORT - 10K
On 16th April, eight members of the wider Station Personal Support Team took part in the Lincoln 10K.
22 ONE BIG DAY
As part of the wider Coningsby Connected development, Force Development Squadron played host to three elements, allowing station to consider how best we can support each other.
22 AIR FORCE MAINBOARD 2023
1 6 – 17 May 2023 saw RAF Coningsby deliver the Air Force Main Board Away Day.
23 FORMBY'S RAF RESERVE 611 SQUADRON COMMEMORATES BATTLE OF THE ATLANTIC ANNIVERSARY
On the evening of the 16th May 2023, the BBMF commemorated the 80th anniversary of Operation Chastise, commonly known as the Dambusters Raid.
Op Chastise was an attack on the Ruhr Dams, taking place during the night. 617 Squadron carried out the raid which involved 133 aircrew and 19 Lancaster Bomber aircraft. 24-year-old Wing Commander Guy Gibson was personally selected to lead the raid by Air Chief Marshal Sir Arthur “Bomber” Harris, the Commander-in-Chief of Bomber Command.
On the night of the raid, 19 specially modified Lancasters, carrying “Upkeep”, later more commonly known as the “Bouncing Bomb” set off for Germany. The Bouncing Bomb was effectively a 9250lb cylindrical mine or depth charge containing 6,600 lbs of underwater explosive and three hydrostatic pistols set to explode at 30ft below the surface. The crews, who had trained to operate their bombers at heights above 15000’, with a measured approach to the target allowing accurate navigation, were put through an intensive training programme involving extensive low-level flying and cross-country navigation. They then had to do the same thing at night, flying at 150’ over water. 133 aircrew took part in the raid, however sadly 53 were killed and 3 became prisoners of war.
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, maintain the Lancaster PA474, one of only two of these iconic aircraft still in airworthy condition today.
Flt Lt Paul “Ernie” Wise had the privilege of flying this commemorative sortie on the evening of the 80th Anniversary. Ernie said:
“Tonight was an immensely special occasion. We launched our Lancaster to join vast amounts of people in commemorating the 80th anniversary of Operation CHASTISE, The Dambusters Raid. We, at the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, felt that the most appropriate way we could honour this landmark anniversary was to put our iconic Lancaster Bomber into the sky for as many people to see
and hear as possible. The significance of the sortie was at the forefront of our minds throughout the entire three-hour flight. 80 years ago the Lincolnshire sky was filled with nineteen Lancaster Bombers destined for the Möhne, Sorpe, and Eder Dams. The resonance of Merlin engines prominent as the aircraft departed from RAF Scampton. Tragically, eight aircraft did not return, with 53 aircrew killed and 3 aircrew taken as POW. Tonight’s flight paid tribute to the mission, and the devastating sacrifice that Bomber Command suffered. Our task was to fly 33 commemorative flypasts ranging as far South as the RAF Museum at Hendon before returning North to Bomber County. Most of our flypasts tonight were focussed within Lincolnshire, as we daisy chained our
flight path to ensure that we overflew the many Bomber Command airfields within the County, whilst also able to pay our respects at the International Bomber Command Centre in Lincoln.
We at the BBMF have been eagerly awaiting tonight, but whilst also nervously monitoring the weather
and praying for favourable conditions to allow the task to go ahead. There has been an enormous amount of interest in the event both from the UK and overseas, which is heart-warming. Tonight was especially poignant for the team with the recent passing of our
His words were even more significant tonight within the Lancaster cockpit as the night drew on, “When you can see Lincoln Cathedral, you know you’re home”.
A truly evocative sight.
Lest We Forget.”
The Lancaster conducted a commemorative sortie over Belgium and the Netherlands this week, which is a rare opportunity to see the aircraft operate overseas.
The Lancaster Bomber played an important part in the Liberation of the Continent, and the flight was able to serve as a commemoration of Operation Manna which saw it used in a humanitarian capacity, delivering food and supplies to those in need in the Netherlands.
Despite a challenging 24 hours in the lead up to the commemorative sortie, the outstanding team of engineers on the BBMF worked tirelessly to ensure a fault that was discovered on the aircraft was rectified and the sortie was able to take place as planned, with only a minor delay to the start time.
The sortie itself was 5 hours and 10 minutes long, with Flt Lt Paul “Ernie” Wise and Flt Lt Jamie
“JJ” Jackson flying, supported by Navigators Flt Lt Neil Whitehead and Flt Lt Chris Stradling and Flight Engineer MACR Dave Stinton. The Bomber aircrew were also joined on board by two of the Flight’s engineers who were ready to support should the aircraft need to land for fuel overseas. Flt Lt Chris Stradling, who has joined the flight this year as a Navigator, said;
“As the newest Aircrew member of the Flight, I am immensely proud to have been selected to represent the Flight and the RAF on the upcoming remembrance sortie over Holland and Belgium. To be able to participate in the sortie to remember those of Bomber Command who lost their lives over Holland and Belgium is a huge privilege. Whilst flying and operating the BBMF
aircraft overseas presents a new challenge, the help, guidance and advice we have received from our foreign counterparts has helped enormously with the planning.”
To make the sortie possible, the BBMF Ops Team worked closely with event organisers across Belgium and the Netherlands to gain the information required to make such a significant event happen, keeping organisers up to date along the way with timings and any changes to the programme, especially in the crucial 24 hours prior to the flight commencing. Speaking after the sortie, Bomber Pilot Flt Lt Ernie Wise added; “To have the opportunity to fly one of only two airworthy Lancaster Bombers remaining is a privilege, but to be able to retrace the
steps of wartime Bomber Command crews over Belgium and the Netherlands is a real honour. What the Lancaster represents and signifies to the public is overwhelming. This was my first time operating the Lancaster over Belgium and the Netherlands, and an event that I have been eagerly awaiting. The generosity and support of the host nations is not lost on the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and events like this strengthen our bond through the commemoration and celebration of those Bomber Command crews, their sacrifices, and successes that place us where we are today.
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Banovallum is a school where staff want the best for all pupils and are determined that that all pupils will succeed. We are a growing school but still small enough to know our pupils and families. This allows us to build positive relationships and enables each student the opportunity to flourish whilst in our care. We understand the importance of educating the whole child and our young people leave Banovallum equipped to take their place in a fastchanging world. Pupils have the chance to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award up to Silver level and participate in a wide range of sporting and cultural activities. Trips abroad and within the UK enable the pupils to embrace and understand our own and other cultures. Our students have numerous opportunities to develop their leadership skills from the School Council, Sports & House Captains and Senior Prefects.
Our curriculum has been carefully designed to ensure that pupils can choose and succeed in whichever pathway they want. We are ambitious for them and want the students to leave Banovallum in the best possible position to prosper from the opportunities we have provided. Manners and courtesy are important and we demand high standards in both.
Our recent Ofsted inspection pointed to the fact that, “Staff and pupils are proud of the school.” Come and join us!”
Lincolnshire Terminal Air Traffic Control Centre (TATCC) became fully operational in July 2022 when RAF Coningsby, RAF Waddington and RAF Cranwell radar control came together to control within one establishment. Each unit operates independently, controlling the traffic from their respective airfield and flights within designated airspace. Within the TATCC, each radar task is delegated to an individual ‘bank’ of controllers, however, the three banks work closely on a daily basis to ensure safety and operational efficiency is maintained through excellent communication and cooperation. Furthermore, operational task sharing, such as Lower Airspace Radar Service (LARS) and some out of hours movements are often achieved through this framework.
Lincolnshire TATCC is responsible for the radar task in a particularly busy airspace. The radar task for the TATCC involves operating in overlapping airspace
and with a variety of aircraft and sortie types. The Approach Room in the TATCC sees the controllers, in their designated banks, control Eurofighter Typhoons, BBMF, Prefects, Phenoms, Shadows and Rivet Joints, amongst many others. Prior to the TATCC transition, regular communication would be required to facilitate each unit’s activities, however this was done over landline comms. With all units now in the same room, communication and liaison have greatly increased, which has led to a smoother operational output. As well as routine and operational activities, the TATCC has a well-established system for Safety, Training and Standards, that is comprised of members of all radar banks, to optimise assurance, flight safety and operational efficiency.
The TATCC has created an ideal environment for the execution of the practice flypast for the King’s Coronation at RAF Cranwell over College Hall Officers Mess, which represented Buckingham Palace. The flypast
comprised of aircraft from Cranwell, Waddington and Coningsby, as well as other RAF stations. The aircraft, once airborne from the independent units, were handed to 78 Sqn Swanwick Mil for the flypast, as they would be on the Coronation Day. Following the execution of the practice flypast, Waddington radar bank were responsible for the initial control of aircraft and distribution back to the aircraft’s parent unit, where they could be controlled for a safe recovery. The practice flypast was executed efficiently, with only a short pause in routine flying from Cranwell, Coningsby and Waddington. It was a testament to the planning and communication both within the TATCC and with the wider Coronation planning team, that the practice flypast was conducted efficiently and to the required standards.
Several controllers from each of the Cranwell, Coningsby and Waddington Banks volunteered to control the aircraft for the
King’s Coronation on 6th May. The Coronation flypast was to include Typhoons, BBMF, Red Arrows, Rivet Joint, Texans and Phenoms. The TATCC controlled the aircraft out of Cranwell, Coningsby and Waddington and then proceeded to hand the aircraft to Swanwick, who were responsible for the overflight of Buckingham Palace. Unfortunately, due to the weather limitations, the flypast was restricted and many of the aircraft had to return to their units without taking part. The Red Arrows were able to execute their flypast in this historic event due to their different display weather minima, allowing them to wow the crowds around Buckingham Palace. Despite the weather restricting the aircraft, the execution of the TATCC’s role in the Coronation flypast is an excellent example of the benefits achieved by having all the Lincolnshire radar Air Traffic Controllers in one room, and the operational efficiency and teamwork that exists.
To start, we’d like to extend our thanks to those Eagles who’ve flown the nest and welcome those that have joined the Oldest Dedicated Fighter Unit in The World! Firstly, Flt Lt Al Blackford flew his last sortie with XI(F) Sqn on Ex COBRA WARRIOR, leading his 4-ship to certain (exercise) victory. ‘Blackers’ leaves us for 41 Sqn to do “something about testing stuff” and we’ll surely miss his underspoken and unopinionated demeanour. Sqn Ldr Mark Lawson also leaves us on promotion for a very interesting and varied job at MOD Main Building in London, temporarily hanging up his flying boots. We wish him all the best in his new endeavours and thank him for his sterling effort as XO on XI(F) Sqn.
New to the Eagles nest is Flt Lt Josh Summerfield. Josh joins us straight from the flying training pipeline and is already forging ahead with his combat
ready workup. Flt Lt Jake Talbot also joined us early this year. Fresh from 3(F) Sqn, Jake has quickly settled in to XI(F) Sqn and is rapidly nearing combat readiness. Lastly Flt Lt George Young joins us from the sunny isles of Anglesey, after a fulfilling and enjoyable “Creamy” tour on the Hawk – Welcome all!
The recent activity at XI(F) Sqn includes Ex COBRA WARRIOR, with XI(F) Sqn providing multiple personnel for the Large Force Exercise (LFE) planning in both Blue and White Forces. Of note, Sqn Ldr Millikin worked tirelessly to deliver a professional, seamless and safe LFE. Flt Lt Phil Dawe also contributed significantly, filling multiple planning positions in Blue Force throughout the exercise – a huge thanks and congratulations to all.
XI(F) Sqn have also just completed their heavy weapons camp. Multiple Paveway IV releases and live strafe sorties were safely conducted in air
weapons ranges across the UK, exposing many on the Sqn to their first live weapons releases –essential training during combat ready workup and currency training for others, preparing for out of area ops. A big thanks to all the engineers, ops personnel and SES team for their sterling efforts over this period.
With the focus now firmly on upcoming detachments we’re
all looking towards Ex ARTIC CHALLENGE in Sweden. The multinational LFE, based out of Lulea, will be invaluable training with both NATO and nonNATO partners’ integration of assets and alignment of tactics and training.
So from all at XI(F) Sqn on our way to Sweden, “Ci ses senare!”
THE NEW YEAR AT XI(F) SQN HAS BEEN A BUSY AND VARIED ONE THUS FAR, WITH THE MULTINATIONAL EXERCISE COBRA WARRIOR, OUR R2 WORKUP, DEPLOYMENT PREP FOR SWEDEN AND MALAYSIA, AND EVEN A BRIEF VISIT TO RAF BENSON!
Our venue is at the heart of a beautiful historic estate surrounded by woodland, parkland and lakes and we hold a variety of events here.
• Sunflower Trail & Experience
Camping Weekends
Pub Night at the Water Tower
• Artisan Markets
• Enchanted Woodland Lights
The Sqn welcomed back ZJ914, otherwise known as ‘Blackjack’, from its period away at RAF Lossiemouth, where it underwent scheduled maintenance over the Winter months. This year’s Typhoon Display Team are raring to go and very excited to take her around the country and overseas for the year’s packed display schedule.
Why not hire our Safari Tent with wonderful views down to the lakes and parkland beyond: perfect for your wedding, party or a corporate event?
For bookings and full details: stourtonestates.co.uk 01507
We have, at time of writing, graduated 5 Operational Conversion students and 2 Refresher students since the last issue, and expect several more successful graduations by time of going to press. We wish them the very best of luck as they move on from our Sqn family to their next roles within the wider Force.
All hands were on deck as preparations were made to provide many of the Typhoon aircraft and aircrew required for the King’s Coronation Flypast and the practice sorties that were necessary for the three weeks prior to the event. Having taken the lead in
planning and preparing for the Typhoon element of the flypast, carefully arranging and regularly supporting large practice waves all the way up to the big day; whilst the team didn’t get to see their hard work pay off, nonetheless we are all extremely proud of our part in successfully launching the aircraft required for the plan.
As if that wasn’t enough excitement, the Sqn were also delighted to play host to the Mercedes Formula 1 team, including driver George Russell alongside Sky Sports presenter Ted Kravitz. Russell and Kravitz were given tours of the Sqn and the aircraft, hosting a Question & Answer session that was a massive hit with Stn personnel. Mercedes brought along a car and an engine for exhibition, which were placed alongside the Eurofighter Typhoon and EJ200 engine so that they could be admired and compared together as remarkable feats of design and engineering.
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Having returned to RAF Coningsby, following completion of the Typhoon Force’s single longest deployment to date, 12 Squadron has been settling back into the Coningsby Wing and supporting UK-based Operations. Despite a brief period of respite for Squadron personnel and aircraft alike, there is still plenty to update from ‘Shiny Twelve’.
Following the announcement that the Joint Qatari Squadron would continue until 2025, the return to UK flying saw a focus on RAF pilot instructional upgrades in preparation for the next phase of training support to the Qatari Emiri Air Force (QEAF). During this same period, the Squadron provided support leading up to the King's Coronation events.
Award’, which is a prize that recognises the technical heritage of the Wheelwrights.
The award is presented for outstanding technical competence or achievement at any rank across the Squadron during the calendar year. Due to COVID protocols, both the 2021 and 2022 Awards were presented during the visit to Cpl Tierney and Cpl Gammon respectively, for
Despite the weather affecting the flypast itself, Squadron personnel and aircraft were heavily involved in the Wing efforts and practice sessions taking place over the preceding weeks. In addition, several members of the Squadron were privileged to represent their Service on parade in London having put countless hours into drill practise and uniform preparation.
Marking their long-standing affiliation, 12 Squadron recently hosted a visit for the Worshipful Company of Wheelwrights. During the visit, our affiliated livery company presented the ‘Rolling Wheel
their exemplary contribution to Squadron output –congratulations to them both!
We were also fortunate to send 4 personnel to Belgium to participate in a series of remembrance events which are organised annually on the 12 May. The ceremony remembers the heroism and sacrifices of both 12 Squadron and the Belgian 5th Squadron crews who flew Fairey Battles in WW2. During a particular raid in 1940, attempting to destroy 3 key bridges over the Albert Canal, many of the aircraft tasked with the mission were shot down. For their bravery, flying and navigational skills,
two 12 Squadron aviators, Fg Off Garland and Sgt Gray were posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross. The Squadron’s long-standing affiliation and participation in ceremonial events with the local community remains an honour for the unit.
Another significant moment saw Wg Cdr Chris Wright handover the baton of Squadron command to Wg Cdr Andy Watson. Having taken charge in September 2019, with only a handful of personnel, Wg Cdr Wright led 12 Squadron’s rise from formation to a fully formed Operational Typhoon unit. The achievements of the Squadron during this period culminated in a highly successful deployment to Qatar to support No 1 Typhoon Wing (QEAF) deliver the air policing mission for the FIFA World Cup, 2022.
As we look toward our next chapter, we wish Wg Cdr Wright all the best in his next post, whilst welcoming Wg Cdr Watson to the Fighting Foxes! Leads the Field!
With Op SHADER approaching for 3(F) Sqn we have taken advantage of some live weapon events. These include Paveway 4 bomb drops and strafe practice (firing the Mauser cannon live).
The Engineers continued to uphold their excellent reputation and provided the Sqn with 4 live armed aircraft for 3 continuous days ensuring Sqn pilots receive the training required for the Sqns imminent departure to the Middle East. The target was situated on Garvie Island, an uninhabited islet which lies off the Northern coast. The only islet in Europe where live 1000lb bombs may be dropped. It was here that Vulcan bombers trained before their epic Operation Black Buck
mission to the Falkland Islands in 1982.
The sortie consisted of a departure from Coningsby, transiting to Aberdeen to conduct air-to-air refuelling from an RAF Voyager, followed by the weapons release at Cape Wrath. Most of the days the weather was kind and allowed the pilots to practice the profiles with the new Litening pods enabling us to see the target on the ground. All 6 releases were successful and accurately hit the target. On successful completion the formations conducted some low-level flying around Scotland which is rare for RAF Coningsby based aircraft. We passed over the Isle of Skye, Glennfinnan Viaduct (The Harry Potter bridge) and Ben Nevis.
The engineers continued to provide excellent serviceability with the addition of bullets to allow the Sqn to practice live firing of the gun. This took place at Holbeach Air Weapons range situated between Boston and King’s Lynn. To follow is a short precise of the final mission from Flt Lt Whatmough:
“It was the third sortie of the live strafing conducted by three Sqn and our US Navy F18 exchange officer and the ex-Navigator took to the skies above Holbeach Weapons Range. The aim was to improve the air to ground gunning profiles and make the pilots confident and competent in firing
the Typhoon Mauser cannon live. After conducting several passes at various altitudes they completed their training before returning to base to be debriefed by the eagle-eyed Qualified Weapons Instructor, to ensure they had honoured the correct safety procedures and to validate their attacks in accordance with the profile briefed earlier that day. Air to ground gunning in the Typhoon is extremely challenging and takes practice in the SIM and the air. Minute changes of wind, speed, dive angle and accuracy of parameters all factor into the effectiveness of the delivery of bullets to the intended target. Flying at 30 degrees nose down at 450knots is not an easy task and takes extreme concentration.”
3(F) Sqn completed 10 sorties of live strafe, qualifying the Combat Ready pilots and preparing them for their upcoming Operation in the Middle East.
3(F) Sqn have also been very busy participating in large flying exercises such as the multi-national Cobra Warrior and integrating with the next generation Lightning aircraft based out of RAF Marham. These exercises allow the Sqn to hone a multitude of skills and develop strong bonds across its NATO allies.
The start of 2023 has also been a busy time on the ground, certainly for one of the squadron’s newest pilots; Flt Lt Tom Bolland (Bolly). Following recent combat ready status he was loaded onto the Tactical Leadership Programme’s Composite Air Operations synthetic course. The objective of the TLP COMAO academic course is to enhance the ability of selected aircrew members to effectively
integrate the various attack/ support components within a package, plan tactics which best consider the capabilities and limitations of each system, communicate the plan, assemble the package and brief a composite attack force mission. Finally, the mission is executed in the TLP simulator and the lessons learned are extracted. Bolly fulfilled various roles such as deputy mission commander, Offensive Counter Air Package commander and Air Interdiction package commander. This has ultimately increased his understanding of the mission planning process in a multinational environment and the importance of communication both in the planning and execution stage. Apparently it was not the tapas and sangria course which was sold to him by the XO, but great friendships were forged and invaluable experience gained prior to deploying on operations.
Finally, Bolly recently completed SERE C at DSTO, RAF St Mawgan. The course started on Monday morning with 26 people; Bolly managed to survive the wind and rain of Bodmin Moor to be one of the final 13 on the course (probably the only time his previous RAF Regiment experience came in useful, because he was terrible onthe range).
Further afield in the Falkland Islands, Lt Reid, one of our resident Naval aviators, has taken over from Flt Lt Travers at RAF Mount Pleasant in a 7-week deployment. Lt Reid has been interfacing and engaging with many sections out in the Falklands and fully embracing the opportunities to experience the incredible wildlife and learn about its dramatic history.
We are proud to welcome our new Junior Engineering Officer, Flt Lt Bradley Maher and
Intelligence Officer, Flt Lt Chris Kay, who will be replacing Flt Lt Emily Bannister. Emily has had a significant impact on 3(F) Sqn,
both professionally and socially and will sadly be missed. Emily moves on to RAF Waddington on promotion.
THE AIR LAND INTEGRATION (ALI) CELL HAD A VERY PRODUCTIVE FIRST QUARTER, PARTICIPATING IN NUMEROUS DEPLOYMENTS AND TRAINING EXERCISES TO HONE A WIDE RANGE OF SKILLS; FROM CORE DISMOUNTED CLOSE COMBAT TO FULL SPECTRUM AIR ENABLEMENT AS IT AIMS HIGH WITH PROJECT HASTATI.
This project will create small, specialist multiskilled Air Enablement teams capable of coordinating austere or
dispersed air operations by providing the ‘first foot on the ground’ and provide the Air Commander with options to counter enemy capabilities.
Participation in Exercise COBRA WARRIOR allowed the Cell to develop its Air Enablement capabilities, following direction received from Air Commodore
Thompson (Air Officer Global Enablement). Belonging to the Combat and Readiness Force, the Cell offers high-threat trained personnel, capable of self-sustaining operations in remote or austere locations. The Cell have been working alongside Tactical Air Traffic Control (TacATC) operators, who have recently been resubordinated to 7 Force Protection Wing to provide specialised knowledge as early entry ATC-trained personnel. TacATC is a small unit based at RAF Brize Norton.
Employing these skillsets on Ex COBRA WARRIOR the ALI Cell demonstrated individual and integrated capability,
providing the platform to deploy a variety of small teams to locate and, using air platforms, coordinate strikes onto enemy air defences and capabilities to permit the execution of the wider Air mission. Additionally, Combat Control Teams (CCT) were employed to establish tactical landing zones (TLZ) for air transport aircraft in hostile, uncertain, and austere environments. Once deployed these teams integrate JTAC, TLZ survey capabilities with beyond lineof-sight communications to enable early entry command and control to provide global access to any viable operating surface.
In addition to these teams deployed at Spadeadam and Carlisle, the ALI Cell deployed a Tactical Air Control Party to RAF Leeming to
provide a command-and-control function between the forward deployed teams and the higher HQ. A Special Tactics Officer was also employed in the Ex COBRA WARRIOR Mission Planning Cell at RAF Waddington to advise the Air Mission Commander on the capabilities that the ALI Cell deployed elements could provide in direct support of the Air Mission.
The next quarter will involve further development under Project HASTATI working closer with the TacATC personnel as they find their feet under the command of HQ 7 Force Protection Wing. ALI Cell personnel will be deploying to the US on Ex EAGLE LIGHTNING and Ex APOLLO SABRE to deliver Air Enablement in further exercise constructs. If you wish to know more on the ALI Cell’s capabilities, please contact Sqn Ldr Robin Fowler or Flt Lt Wayne Horstwood.
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THE QUIET, RURAL SETTING OF CARSINGTON WATER IN DERBYSHIRE IS A PLACE WHERE NORMALLY, ONE CAN ENJOY A TRANQUIL WALK, TAKE IN THE SCENERY AND RELAX THE MIND.
However, on 1718 May Exercise SILVER SIREN turned up at Carsington which saw an RAF Coningsby Typhoon having a midair collision with an RAF Valley Hawk.
The Hawk would crash into the reservoir and sink, the Typhoon hit a bus full of unsuspecting passengers
of several sections around station for quite some time. Large vehicular deployments from GEF and MT were accompanied by a guard force comprised from across all sections on the station. They all headed for Carsington Water to be directly involved in the 2-day event.
Other MOD units to
be involved including the Salvage & Marine Operations (SALMO) and Joint Aircraft Recovery & Transportation Sqn (JARTS) who specialise, amongst other things, in post-crash management recovery.
and cause a major leak in the dam wall. Unimaginable scenes. Fortunately, this was a simulated crash and nobody was harmed!
The reason for all of this? To assess the stations response to an aircraft crash, and our ability to inter-operate alongside our civilian emergency service counterparts. This happens every 2-years and Ex SILVER
RAF Mountain Rescue lent our crash team the use of their sophisticated crash van which allowed for video calls to Coningsby via MS Teams. Meanwhile, back here on Stn, SILVER Command had set up the Stn Resilience Facility in Eng Wg HQ to run what is known as the Crisis Management Centre or CMC. Again, this called on people from across all areas of the Stn to attend and help run the CMC. Including our own Police, Fire and Medical reps, C4i to assist with radio communications to the crash site and Ops
Wg staff to log and relay key information to the Stn Execs charged with running the recovery operation. Adding realism to the crash site, local college drama students were booked in with make-up artists which made them look like casualties. They would then act these injuries out whilst sat on the stricken bus and put a real-life spin to the medical teams who were trying to triage and treat them as urgently as they could. Likewise, one brave soul got dressed up in aircrew flying clothing (kindly donated by the Squippers!) and swam out into the reservoir to portray the downed Hawk pilot. This
as the emergency services, who had not been briefed to what they would find on arrival at site, had to now deal with a water casualty!
All in all, the Exercise saw 130 training objectives achieved from across all agencies and was a resounding success. Thank you to all of those who deployed to Carsington Water to support, and further thank you to all those sections who supported it from back here at RAF Coningsby. We now begin to plan for the next rendition, Ex SILVER SIREN 2025! Who knows what the scenario will be, or where it might find us!
Generosity in action.
A huge thanks to the team at RAF Coningsby who have helped JET deliver some memorable Blue Skies sessions this year. The visits have offered our students unforgettable experiences and allowed them to grow in confidence and think differently about their futures.
MasterChefs in the making
Pizza-making and leadership don’t normally go hand in hand, unless that is they’re part of JET’s year two programme, which focuses on supporting students to lead with confidence and support others to lead.
Taking place in the Officers’ Mess, the pizza challenge divided students into teams who were then tasked with creating of their own pizza empires! Each student took on a real kitchen role - such as sous chef - and teams then had to create three novel pizza recipes, with different students leading elements of the challenge.
After a lot of fun, some excellent teamwork and some very delicious creativity, the results were critiqued by two VIP judges, with just 2.5-points separating first and second place!
A huge thank you to Cpl Oliver Hawkins for devising and running this innovative leadership session, and to Flt Lt John Gorton as JET’s main POC on the day. Thanks also to ESS who donated the ingredients, and to OC 12 Squadron and the Station Business Manager for
being our VIP guests and judges. This session certainly ignited our students’ culinary curiosity and embodied the essence of leadership in a real-life scenario.
Typhoons take on Blue Skies How many people’s bucket lists include sitting in a cutting-edge fighter jet? Well, that’s exactly what our second year Blue Skies students recently experienced thanks to Flt Lt David Turnbull.
Adding true JET flavour to the Typhoon tour, the students seamlessly transitioned from awe-struck admirers to aspiring leaders in an afternoon session of innovation. Guided by the RAF STEM team, they embarked on a mission to design their own fighter jets (with some transcending the boundaries of conventional engineering!). It was fascinating to see a running theme emerge, with many young pioneers creating ecofriendly jets to run off solar and wind energy!
Thanks so much to the Typhoon team for facilitating the day, and to Chief Tech Jason Gratton from the RAF STEM team for supporting our students.
JET involved.
If any of the above sparks your curiosity, or if you think there’s anything you or your team could do to support future teamwork, leadership or employability sessions, please get in touch with our Regional Manager Jess Nugent: jessica@joneggingtrust. org.uk
Join the JETRide pedal party. Don’t forget to sign up to our annual cycling fundraiser, JETRide. Taking place at RAF College Cranwell on Sunday 24th September 2023, you don’t want to miss it. This year, our top fundraiser will win a £1,500 voucher for Merida Cycles!
Find out more and sign up at www.joneggingtrust.org.uk/ JETRide
MEET THE IMAM
joined HM Armed Forces in 2012 as the Muslim Civilian Chaplain to the Military, CCM and in 2018 I commissioned into the RAF to become the first Commissioned Muslim Chaplain in HM Armed Forces. I have since moved into Regular Forces currently stationed here at RAF Coningsby. My role, as the first and only non-Christian Padre within the RAF has been challenging and exciting. Challenging because nobody knew how it would unfold to have an Imam, Muslim Chaplain, embedded within the Chaplaincy team. How would it work when it comes to acts of worship, prayers during graduation and deployment for example.the chaplaincy, the Station HQ, Welfare and other chores which I was not privy to in my previous role as a Civilian Chaplain or even as a Reservist.
My journey so far is still unfolding. I am glad to have a wonderful team with me who are both supportive and a source of inspiration. I also enjoy support and understanding in the wider station and in other stations. Within the station I am involved in the running of the chaplaincy centre, taking on duty as building custodian and participate in wider chaplaincy affairs. I was humbled when asked to be part of the Remembrance Service and to lead prayers at RAF Cranwell and RAF Halton passing out parades. Being in the office, I quickly learnt that when Service Personnel walk through the door they are not bothered about the flavour of the chaplain behind the desk; all they are concerned is a chaplain to speak to. It has been exciting to be involved, as other padres, attending weekly meetings within
One of the main features of any RAF and Military establishment is the availability of a place of worship; a chapel, church or faith centre and, depending on availability, a World-Faith prayer room. My duty as the Imam and Muslim Chaplain is to work with station chaplains to establish and resource these Prayer spaces. In several units these prayer spaces are open for members of all faiths. Some units have dedicated Muslim prayer rooms and mosques such as RAF Coningsby, Cosford, Cranwell, HMS Sultan, Collingwood, Britannia Royal Naval College and Royal Military Academy Sandhurst to mention a few.
The most favourite part of my role is the fact that when I am out and about within the station or visiting other stations; Naval, Army or RAF, the immediate recognition and appreciation I get as a chaplain/padre. This was not the case in my previous role as a CCM. As a uniformed chaplain I do take part in exercises, adventurous training and deployments. I have visited or taken part in EX-SHADOW FOOT, EX-MAGIC CARPET and EX-COBRA WARRIOR.
As I put my pen down, my final thought would be to celebrate the diversity we have in the RAF and appreciate our individual unique contributions that we bring to our big family.
GOD SAVE THE KING
We are a friendly, happy little school where children are ‘firmly at the centre of all that takes place.’ (Ofsted 2018). We are very proud of the rich educational experiences we provide for our children, including excellent music and sporting opportunities.
small We are a friendly, happy small school where children are ‘firmly at the centre of all that takes place.’ (Ofsted 2018) We are very proud of the rich educational experiences we provide for our children, including excellent music and sporting opportunities.
Our intent is to ‘grow curious, knowledgeable and happy, lifelong learners. Our school values are the golden threads of our broad and exciting curriuclum: Respect, Honesty, Forgiveness, Kindness and Teamwork.
We have very close links with the local community, including our RAF family. Tattershall Primary is a community school in the heart of the village, with 50% of our intake being RAF children.
40%
In addition to excellent teaching, outstanding behaviour and an ethos built on mutual respect, our safe and secure learning environment also includes:
We have very close links with the local community, including our RAF family. Tattershall Primary is a community school in the heart of the village, with 40% of our intake being RAF children.
Small infant class sizes with no more than 20 children
In addition to excellent teaching, outstanding behaviour and an ethos built on mutual respect. Our safe and secure learning environment also includes:
A buddy system for all new children
Very supportive parents
• Small infant class sizes with no more that 21 children
Children enter school full-time on their first day
• A buddy system for all new children
Bluey lunchtime club for children with deployed parents
• Very supportive parents who we welcome into school for events
• Children enter school full-time on their first day
• Bluey lunchtime club for children with deploayed parents
Outstanding sporting opportunities for all children across the school, including a wide range of after school clubs
• Outstanding sporting opportunities for all children across the school. Including a wide range of after school clubs
• Early Years, Phonics, KS1 and KS2 results of which we are proud
Nationally recognised music provision, including the opportunity for every child to play an instrument free of charge!
Above National Early years, phonics, KS1 and KS2 results.
• Motivated, happy children who are consistently taught by dedicated, knowlwdgeable and hardworking staff
Ranked in the top 5 schools in Lincolnshire for pupil progress (top 3% Nationally)
• Outstanding safeguarding and pastoral care
Motivated, happy children who are consistently taught by dedicated, knowledgeable and hardworking staff
Don’t just take our word for it! Come and experience what #teamTattershall has to offer.
Outstanding safeguarding and pastoral care
Book and appointment with the office staff, or just pop along for a tour of the school.
On 16th April, eight members of the wider Station Personal Support Team took part in the Lincoln 10K. Whilst the goal may not appear a mammoth task to all, the team wasn’t made up of seasoned runners! It was simply an opportunity to encourage some different training and much needed breaks away from the desk.
On the day the weather, the weather was kind (thankfully!). More importantly, all those taking part achieved their own personal goals whether that was simply crossing the finish line or getting as close to a sub-50-minute finish as possible. The route is known for being predominantly flat despite Lincoln being on the top of a large hill, the gentle incline around the 8km mark did prove a slight challenge to some already tired legs but thankfully no one
came away with an injury and each team member crossed the line still smiling.
WO Crowley was the fastest member across the line in 51.21 with WO Leonard and Padre Brown hot on his heels, swiftly followed by Padre Lacey. Some of those that took part were raising money for the RAF Benevolent Fund with total funds raised more than £500.
The RAF Benevolent Fund is a charity much used by service
personnel on Station and their immediate families for a range of financial support and wider services including provision of the Headspace mindfulness App and Listening and Counselling services. Training for some will continue as most team members have already signed up for future events including more 10Ks, Ultra Marathons and the Station Charities ‘Marathon in May’ event.
As part of the wider Coningsby Connected development, Force Development Squadron played host to three elements, allowing station to consider how best we can support each other.
The morning session saw insight from Human Performance specialists
focusing on Sleep, Performance Psychology, and also direct support from the 29 Sqn chosen charity “Head up”, looking at how we adapt to a battle rhythm and meet demands across an even busier RAF Coningsby. Dr. Kate Ludlam presented on super strengths and how her experience in GB Boxing has allowed the Olympic
sport to move into a successful period of medal hauling. Dr. Mike Oliver presented applied practice in how to improve sleep and the challenges that poor sleep can have in our workplace. Air Cdre Arnold, ACOS Trg, 22 Gp, attended to observe how the repositioning of RAF Coningsby PEd Flt will have, and continues to plan to impact Stn life. The final presenter from the RAF Benevolent Fund, Mr. Bob Greig talked about his experience as a former PJI. His focus on resilience and self-leadership was obvious to all in the room to draw on his super human strengths.
Over the course of the afternoon two main areas of focus took stage with Wings
and Sqns providing team efforts to compete across 5 events and the village where sports club and charities provided an opportunity to have coffee, food and discussions around what being part of Coningsby, at the moment, is like.
Whilst Force Development Squadron provided the project coordination function, it was very much a whole Station effort with Stn Executives supporting and releasing their people to enjoy an afternoon of physical activities and perhaps most importantly be able to spend time away from the office, in what turned out to be super weather! Our thanks must go to BAE who supported the day with provision of participant kit and equipment for success.
16 – 17 May 2023
saw RAF Coningsby deliver the Air Force Main Board Away Day. During this period the 20 VVIP officers including the NonExecutive Board Members took the opportunity to not only utilise 12 Sqn and the facilities to hold the formal board meeting, but to engage across Station looking into the issues people raised and challenges felt across the Whole Force. Station Commander attended the board as an observer
and was able to present the lived experience of life at Coningsby. Ahead of the visit it had been agreed that a realistic view must be shared but also highlight the innovative approaches that personnel had utilised through Astra funding routes and increased collaboration with industry partners.
Following on from the board meeting. 12 Sqn played host to a Whole Force lunch as the board engaged with ranks from the across Station
to understand roles and responsibilities a little more. After lunch, as the NonExecutive Board members were hosted on 29 Sqn to look around and engage with all a mix of personnel from across the professions to understand greater insight to the pressures on the OCU. Concurrently the SLT visiting FDS, were able to be exposed to the bi-monthly “Coningsby Connected” workshops ahead of a Whole Force Townhall that allowed outgoing CAS to address the
Station and thank all for their efforts during his tenure.
Whilst Force Development Squadron provided the project coordination function, it was very much a whole Station effort with 29 challenging serials requiring complex movements, coordination and insight but as usual, station assets stepped in to provide transport, accommodation, food, and hosts to support the main effort of delivering without impacting, too much, on operational activities.
Formby based 611 Squadron were out in force to support military activities remembering World War Two’s longest battle.
Military personnel from around the world were welcomed to Liverpool to mark the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic.
Personnel from 611 Squadron represented the service and the important role played by RAF personnel and aircraft in the three-day commemoration.
73,000 Royal Navy personnel, 30,000 merchant seamen and 6,000 RAF Coastal Command personnel, as well as 29,000 German U-boat crew, lost their lives in the battle.
Wing Commander Stephen Chaskin OBE, the Officer Commanding 611 Squadron, said:
“As the RAF’s only squadron in the North West, we were proud to represent the service at the commemorations.
“Standing alongside our Navy colleagues and remembering those that fought was a huge honour.”
In a memorable tribute to all those who served in the Battle of the Atlantic, RAF flypasts took place on each day of the event over the Mersey,
including a Fairey Swordfish, Lancaster, Hurricanes and a Spitfire.
The flypasts served as a reminder that the RAF was committed to protecting the nation then and continues to do so now in the form of the P8 Poseidon, a highly capable anti-submarine warfare aircraft, which also flew over Liverpool to mark the anniversary event.
Based at RAF Woodvale, and with engineering facilities in Aintree, 611 Squadron draws in reserve personnel from across the North West.
They train in air & space operations, intelligence, ground engineering, logistics, human resources and media, as well as chaplaincy services, to support the RAF in the UK and
overseas on main bases and on operations.
More details about joining the Squadron can be found at https://www.raf. mod.uk/our-organisation/ squadrons/611-r-squadron/
By AS McGaghey 611 Sqn Media Reserves
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