Sat, May 24, 2008
Red Arrows Will Relocate To RAF Waddington By 2011
The World Famous Royal Air Force
Aerobatic Team, more commonly known as the Red Arrows, plan to move
from RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire to nearby RAF Waddington.
The decision to move the Red Arrows comes after completion of a
Royal Air Force Study that considered basing options for them. The
study found that moving to RAF Waddington was the most suitable
option in terms of the team's operational effectiveness and value
for money. The relocation will be completed by July 2011.
RAF Waddington is home to the RAFs Intelligence, Surveillance,
Target and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) aircraft. Waddington will provide
the legendary Red Arrows display team with improved facilities
while being only 5 minutes flying time from RAF Scampton. Local
people will still be able to enjoy thrilling displays as the Red
Arrows continue to use the dedicated airspace above RAF Scampton to
practice their routines.
"The Red Arrows are known around the World as ambassadors for
the RAF and the UK as a whole," said Defence Minister Bob
Ainsworth. "Today's announcement is testament to the importance of
their continued contribution.
"We are working closely with the Trade Unions to relocate all
100 service personnel and two civilian staff who support the Red
Arrows to RAF Waddington by 2011."
Wing Commander Jas Hawker, commanding officer of the Red Arrows,
added "RAF Scampton has been our home for many years and I thank
the local people for their support during our time here. We will
continue to have a strong association with the area as we will
still be practicing our displays there.
"The move to RAF Waddington is a new chapter in our history,"
Hawker said. "We are delighted to be staying in Lincolnshire and we
look forward to maintaining our close relationships with local
communities."
Station Commander at RAF Waddington, Group Captain Andy Fryer,
said his base was "delighted" with the news, adding "RAF Waddington
is home to some of the Air Force's finest assets and has a
reputation built on commitment and professionalism. The Red Arrows
are most definitely a welcome addition."
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