Royal Air Force News Friday, November 14, 2025 P13
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Royal tribute for victims of UK military’s gay ban Simon Mander HM KING Charles has unveiled a sculpture dedicated to thousands of gay and lesbian personnel prosecuted under the MOD’s ban on homosexuality The statue at the National Memorial Arboretum marks the historical harms faced by LGBT veterans and features a free-standing, opened letter forged in bronze (inset ( left),
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TECH THAT: Specialist military skills in demand in Civvy Street, survey says
Just the job Staff Reporter MILITARY SKILLS could hold the key to UK economic growth, according to a new report. Recruitment experts Lightcast say Service leavers have top transferable, technical, and specialised abilities that meet the most pressing labour market needs, including clean energy, advanced manufacturing and the latest digital technologies. Key military skills like leadership, problem solving and resilience match the top competencies sought by employers. Service leavers are also equipped with the experience and technical talents in demand in the advanced manufacturing sectors and life sciences. Report director Donna Murrell said: “Service leavers are more than ready for today’s jobs – they are equipped for the careers of tomorrow. “By demonstrating how military-acquired skills match with employer demand across the UK economy, we are seeking to open up the widest possible choices for Service leaver careers.”
resting on a base of York stone. The letter incorporates words drawn from the testimonies of former Service personnel affected by the ban, alongside contributions from current serving members and veterans. It was backed by Britain’s first openly gay judge, the late Lord Etherton, whose review included 1,128 testimonials of those affected, with many personnel dismissed, losing their pensions and medals, or facing imprisonment and ‘forced treatment’ at military hospitals. King Charles was joined by Chief of the Defence Staff ACM
Sir Richard Knighton and senior military leaders for the ceremony. The chosen design, titled An Opened Letter, incorporates the testimonies of former Service personnel. Charity Fighting With Pride held an event for the memorial in July. Project officers Roly Woods and Kevin Bazeley said at the time: “This memorial represents a powerful step forward in recognising and honouring the service and sacrifices of the LGBT+ armed forces community. “The team is proud to deliver a tribute that will resonate for generations to come.”
Türkiye lands Typhoon deal £8bn contract to deliver 20 Eurofighters
Simon Mander THE UK and Türkiye have signed a deal worth up to £8 billion for 20 UK Typhoons, hailed as the biggest fighter jet export agreement in a generation. It was signed in Ankara as the Prime Minister was hosted by the President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and saves BAE’s Warton production line from closure. PM Sir Keir Starmer said: “This landmark
agreement with Türkiye is a win for British workers, a win for our defence industry and a win for Nato security.” During the visit he met Turkish military and Royal Air Force Typhoon pilots. The contract to buy the swingrole fighter will see more than 37 per cent of each aircraft manufactured in the UK, the rest will be produced by partner nations.
Defence Secretary John Healey said: “Türkiye is an important Nato ally and the gatekeeper to the Black Sea. By equipping them with Typhoons, this deal will strengthen deterrence and help make us all safer.” The first delivery is expected to take place in 2030. BAE Systems Chief Executive Charles Woodburn said: “This announcement extends Typhoon production and preserves crucial sovereign skills which underpin the UK’s defence and security.”