Royal Air Force News Friday, July 10, 2026 P9
News Bulletin
Tanks a lot Civvie crews join Voyager to lift capability on Ops
BRIZE TRIP: Swedish crews check out a 99 Sqn C-17 Globemaster
Nato’s need for Swede MEMBERS OF the Swedish Air Force landed at Brize Norton as part of a Nato programme to learn about airfield operations at a UK main operating base. The two-day visit would strengthen ties between the RAF and one of the Alliance’s newest member nations, a station spokesman said. Capt Anna Obrovac of the Swedish Air Force said: “This has been a very valuable visit where we were able to meet several counterparts and share mutual methods of working. “It has given us the opportunity to discuss both similarities and differences in the way we operate our airfields, and we are looking forward to further collaboration in the future.”
Staff Reporter BRIZE-BASED VOYAGER crews and their civilian counterparts from defence contractor AirTanker are working side by side to strengthen operational capability across the UK’s air mobility fleet. The collaboration brings together military and civilian crew on the Voyager tanker and transporter aircraft to support global operations, air chiefs said. 10 Sqn’s Officer Commanding, Wg Cdr Brook, said: “This partnership is a clear demonstration of how our whole force approach delivers operational advantage.
“By working closely with AirTanker, we are strengthening resilience, increasing flexibility, and ensuring we can respond effectively whenever and wherever we are needed.” Paul Kimberley, Chief Operating Officer at AirTanker, said: “This represents a practical step in how we continue to develop the Voyager Force, with the potential for civilian pilots to support military crews when demand requires. “Most importantly, it reflects how the RAF and AirTanker partnership continues to adapt in a considered and pragmatic way, ensuring the capability is ready to respond when needed.”
Jodie honours charity debt Tracey Allen
Get set for Summer THE RAF Museum Midlands has launched its Summer Camp, giving youngsters a week of aviation-themed fun. The venue has lined up a host of activities designed to inspire the next generation of aviators with engineering challenges exploring robotics, cyber-security and how artificial intelligence works. Open to youngsters aged 11 to 13, the programme will be
running throughout July and early August. A spokesman said: “The RAF Summer Camp offers a fun and engaging way for young people to develop valuable STEM skills, build confidence and work collaboratively, while exploring the fascinating worlds of aviation and technology.” ● Go to rafmuseum.org/ midlands for details.
A VETERAN’S daughter hit the fundraising trail to thank the charities that helped save her father’s life. Former Air Traffic Controller James Oddie suffered a brain haemorrhage which left him with severe sight loss and mobility problems. Sight Scotland Veterans and the Lothian Veterans Centre stepped in to help the 52-year-old airman fight his way back to fitness, providing rehabilitation programmes and equipping his home with specialist lighting. Daughter Jodie took on the Edinburgh Half Marathon to support the Forces welfare teams who helped him get back to work. She said: “A year ago, I never imagined he’d be where he is now. He’s regained his independence, his confidence has returned, and he’s enjoying life again thanks to the support from Sight Scotland Veterans. “They have given him his life back. I wanted to raise money for the staff, volunteers and fellow veterans who have supported him every step of the way. It has meant so much to all of us.”
SUPPORT ACT: AirTanker Chief Pilot Capt Steve Richards (left) joins 10 Sqn’s Flt Lt Gary Drysdale on board a Voyager at Brize Norton