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Have
Station Commander’s Foreword
Time has flown; it feels like just a moment ago that I took command of the Station, and two and half years later I find myself preparing to hand over the reins.
Serving as your Station Commander has been a true honour and privilege, making it the most enjoyable, rewarding, and at times challenging experience for both my family and I. It is a tour that we will cherish dearly, reminiscing about it for years to come. Wing Commander Mark Hinde will officially assume command on Monday 14th July, but you will have the opportunity to meet him around the Station before that date as he familiarises himself with the surroundings and meets the various sections as part of the handover process.
The recent months have been as busy as the past two and a half years. The Station’s Complex Air and Ground Environment training area has been consistently active, along with our 25-metre range. We successfully hosted a largescale exercise involving personnel from RAF Global Enablement and our counterparts from the French Air Force, and have hosted British Army units and cadet groups from across East Anglia. The diversity of training being undertaken wonderfully showcases the exceptional opportunities and facilities that the Station offers to the Defence community.
The dedicated Station personnel have been diligently enhancing both the internal and external facilities, culminating in Honington
being recognised for having some of the finest - if not the very best - facilities in the RAF. Our new astroturf pitch is now operational, the Functional Training Area (FTA) boasts a new Olympic-standard floor and a complete makeover, while the Officers’ Mess and Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess have undergone muchneeded kitchen upgrades. The transformation and enhancements will persist through the summer and into autumn, with Works Services Flight, DIO, and VIVO continuously evaluating and planning upgrades for the single living accommodation blocks. The RAF Marham swimming club now utilises our Station swimming pool weekly (Honington personnel are welcome to join), and we continue to offer children’s lessons and lifeguard training (volunteers are always welcome!). Following the successful hosting of the UK Armed Forces Elite Boxing Championship in March, we are expanding our support for RAF and RAF Regiment boxing, with plans to host the RAF Regiment Inter-Squadron Boxing Station Show in June and an RAF vs Royal Engineers competition in 2026.
One of the most noticeable changes at the Station was the retirement of our cherished Buccaneer aircraft, which has now found a new home at the Binbrook Heritage site in Lincolnshire under the care of Trevor Cockings and
be my final Honington
his team. To fill the void left by the departure of the Buccaneer, a Tornado GR4 is being prepared to stand proudly at the front gate. Adorned in a GR1 paint scheme reminiscent of the aircraft from the Tornado Weapons Conversion Unit established at the Station in 1981, I am confident it will exude a commanding and enduring presence as our new guardian.
As this will be my final Honington Herald foreword, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire team, encompassing the Whole Force, across the Station and all Resident Units, for their unwavering support and hard work in making RAF Honington a better place to live, work, and train. I am certain that you will extend the same level of support to Wg Cdr Hinde as you have to me, ensuring that RAF Honington continues to thrive and progress. I wish each and every one of you the very best in your professional and personal pursuits and hope to cross paths with you again in the future.
Pro Anglia Valens!
COMMANDER AIR BASES VISIT
RAF Honington was delighted to welcome Air Commodore Simon Blackwell, Commander Air Bases, for a visit to the Station.
During the visit Air Cdre Blackwell met with personnel from across the Station and learned more about the excellent work being done at Honington. The visit was a great opportunity to showcase the Honington estate and infrastructure developments whilst also demonstrating how our teams and resident units work together to support the RAF’s wider mission.
Station Commander, Wing Commander Max Hayward said; “We were proud to showcase the hard work and dedication of everyone here at RAF Honington. Not just the operational outputs that Honington delivers every day, but also the recent infrastructure changes that the team here have put into place to improve the quality of life for station personnel.”
WO SHOBHA EARL RETIRES AFTER 47 YEARS SERVICE
On Wednesday 23rd April 2025, WO Shobha Earl spent her last working day in the RAF after 47 years’ Service as both a Regular and Reservist, and was given the traditional Bowler Hat Ceremony by the Stn Cdr RAF Honington. WO Earl has been a true Ambassador of the RAF and will be sorely missed as she begins her well earnt and deserved Retirement.
DEPUTY CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF VISIT
RAF Honington was privileged to host Air Marshal Paul Lloyd, Deputy Chief of the Air Staff, for an official visit to the Station.
The visit provided an opportunity to brief Air Marshal Lloyd on the operational outputs of RAF Honington, as well as to highlight the role and integration of our resident units. During his time on Station he met with Whole Force
personnel and gained insight into the work being done across all areas of the Honington community.
It was a great opportunity to showcase the professionalism, dedication, and capability of our people.
HONINGTON INFRASTRUCTURE WORKS
It has been a very busy year for the Works Management Flight at Honington with lots of concurrent works going on across the Station.
Most noticeable are the works that have been done to the facilities of the PEd Flt, most of which had been run down and in need of repair. The old RRU has been given a £8000 facelift and now has all brand-new CV and cable weight equipment. The Functional Training Area (FTA) has had a new Olympic standard floor installed which allows heavy weight training anywhere on its surface without risking damage to the subsurface. The Astroturf has had a £250,000 makeover and now boasts a FIFA level 3G pitch giving a top quality all year-round facility. We had also completed a new Range Wardens Hut at £1.3M which provides troops with a warm environment complete with kitchenette and toilets while waiting for use of the 25m range.
Domestically, we have been working on some much-needed kitchen upgrades in the Officers’
Mess (£30,000), Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess (£20,000) and the Explosive Storage Area (£20,000) with scope to start refurbishments in the SLAs this financial year. We have also created a new home for our Stn Padres by the TDF classrooms at £35,000.
Finally, we have started to look at much needed painting refreshes on some of our facilities including Busby’s Coffee shop and the WOSM, and these will continue
into the new FY to start bringing Honington back up to the smart and clean appearance it should be.
My thanks as ever to the WSF team, Steve and Gary from DIO and also David and all the team at VIVO for their hard work to make these needed upgrades happen and for helping to improve the lives of all who work and serve here at Honington.
Sqn Ldr Henry Else
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STRENGTH, SWEAT AND THANKS
Health and wellness and excellence for the whole force
The Physical Education Flight are excited to announce the opening of the newly renovated Fitness Facilities! These enhanced spaces are designed to provide the unit with a comprehensive environment for fitness and wellness.
The new fitness facilities are an incredible resource for all unit personnel, some of the best in the RAF, offering modern, well-equipped spaces designed to support a variety of fitness needs. Whether you are lifting weights, swimming, engaging in sports, or simply want to be a little healthier, these new areas will help you achieve your fitness goals. We hope that everyone takes full advantage of these facilities.
The new fitness facilities are designed to meet the diverse needs of our unit personnel and dependants alike. Here is a breakdown of the areas available for use:
• The Functional Training Area (FTA): This area is designed for
lifters, cross-trainers, and fitness enthusiasts. The FTA is equipped to accommodate a variety of functional training exercises, whether you’re pumping iron or crushing a HIIT session, this is your space.
• Fitness Suite (including Weights Room & CV Suite): A comprehensive fitness space that caters to both cardiovascular and strength training. This area includes a wide range of brand-new equipment to support various fitness goals.
• Sports Hall: The sports hall is available for booking 24/7 and is primarily used for circuit training. It’s a great place for any sport you wish to tackle; basketball, badminton, or even
an impromptu dodgeball match, leave the wrenches at home!
• 3G Astro Pitch: This brand new 3G rubber based astro pitch facility includes new lighting, boasts 2 x 5-a-side pitches, 1 x 11-a-side pitch and caters for everyone who wishes to use it.
• Swimming Pool: Ideal for those looking to incorporate lowimpact cardiovascular training or simply enjoy a refreshing swim.
• Old CV Suite (now the Jujitsu Suite): This area will be used as an overspill area for free weights, ensuring that there is enough space for everyone to train comfortably. It contains weight lifting platforms and a small selection of CV equipment ensuring you never run out of space to push your limits.
Thank you once again to everyone involved in making this massive project a success. A special thanks goes to Cpl Craig who was the driving force behind the project’s initiation, WO Thompson, in my absence, ensured everything fell into place faster than a wellexecuted deadlift. Sqn Ldr Else, Fg Off Champion, Mr Gary Stannard and the remainer of the DIO & Projects team for facilitating
and navigating the complex avenues need to achieve what we have today. Your hard work and dedication have truly made a difference, and we look forward to seeing you all utilise the areas and to see the positive impact they will have on the unit.
Remember, the only bad workout is the one you didn’t do!
Sgt Greg Henry SNCO PEd Flt
Codename – “Op BUCCY”
The Retirement of the RAF Honington Gate Guard - Buccaneer S2 XK526a
This story starts In November 2022. The Station Commander at the time, Group Captain “Dutch” Holland remarked that the Buccaneer gate guardian needed a new lease of life. It was struggling with the winters, and the paint was starting to peel away in places. It was also noticeable that the undercarriage had slipped lower and the rear of the historic aircraft was on the ground. I set about to get a team together to wash it down in the New Year as part of Op SPRINGCLEAN. Sadly, by this time the damage had accelerated, and it was deemed beyond repair in some places.
Ineeded a new plan. After some discussions with some local specialists and the Joint Aircraft Recovery Team (JARTs) it was decided that the best option for this Gate Guard would be to retire it. This decision sparked a search for a new home. The options were slim, JARTs could only offer a ‘cut apart’ for transport and scrap, and other interested parties could only offer a new place for it but without the means to lift and move it. Things looked bleak. After all, XK526 had been in place since 1983 and was brittle in places, by now the undercarriage doors had fallen off.
Then by absolute chance in September 23 there was a RAF Benevolent Fund visit to the Station and on this visit was Mr Trevor Cockings, the CEO of Binbrook Heritage. Being a huge ‘history nerd’ he asked about why it looked so
run down, After a 10-minute SWO story he said: ‘can I have it for RAF Binbrook? Little did I realise at the time, but he had the ways and means to fix this complex logistical task. The new Station Commander, Wing Commander Max Hayward, was sold on the idea, and a resolution was closer than ever. We could now swap out the Gate Guard and give XK526 a new home.
A request was sent to RAF Heritage to formalise the deal from the RAF’s legal point of view. Fast forward to September 2024 after many recces, inspections and measurements, a weekend was put aside to start the lift to move it away from the Gate Position.
Initially, XK526 held out - it clearly wanted to stay in place. The wings would not budge, but after 24 hours of persistent battling, the first wing creaked under the pin and began to move into its folded position. Surprisingly, from this
The final result was a super-size load at 6.05 metres, 4.95 metres high and in total around 22 metres in length. Weight wasn’t such an issue although the XK526 was estimated at around 13 Tonnes so ‘all up’ Gross weight was approximately 35 Tonnes.
‘‘ ’’
point on, it was plain sailing. The lift from each end took a few hours then a quick move over to safety of the Parade Ground near the Medical Centre, SMO and Nurse Lynne both mentioned that it was nice to have their own gate guard. Sorry both, it’s not staying!
Leaving XK526 here at the old Aircraft Servicing Pan (ASP) gave it one last very important, unplanned task, to confuse our adversaries from any potential espionage attempts. Imagine the surprise when a Buccaneer with its wings folded looking ready for
action appeared on the ASP, this aircraft struck fear into many of our enemies in its day!
Now the serious business started, measuring, reducing its width where possible and trimming its height, this took many visits for Allan and his engineering team from Binbrook Heritage. Many nights staying in transit here, even one night they were treated to a cocktail party in the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess owing to timings, with the following day being described as ‘a bit rough’ from the youngest member of the team.
The final result was a super-size load at 6.05 metres, 4.95 metres high and in total around 22 metres in length. Weight wasn’t such an issue although the XK526 was estimated at around 13 Tonnes so ‘all up’ Gross weight was approximately 35 Tonnes. Its width alone meant that the vehicle could only travel on the permission of Suffolk and Lincolnshire Police and the highways agency. It would also have to be escorted the whole journey and with a reduced speed of 25mph this would take around 10 hours.
The journey was planned to its finest detail, a smooth exit from
Crash Gate 2A and a crowd waiting at the Main Gate then a very tricky left turn and the Honington/ Sapiston Crossroads. Everything went smoothly through Suffolk and then into Lincolnshire it continued to go very well. A quote from the task throughout was ‘Measure 50 times, drive it once’. Guess which Logs MT Driver/SWO came up with that?
So, we look forward to the end of June when the Tornado GR4 ZG752 (129) is moved into position at the Guardroom.
Thank you to all involved in the planning and execution of this immensely complex task.
SWO Warrant Officer Paul ‘Jerry’ McGuire
AS1 GREEN’S CHOCOLATE WORKSHOP
As a passionate AS1 Chef, I was really excited when given a fantastic opportunity through the Industry Partner (ESS) to attend a one-day chocolate fundamentals workshop in Coventry. This was a bespoke course tailored to 10 SCP and IP chefs from across the region.
To begin, we tasted various chocolates ranging in different percentages of cocoa beans, cocoa butter and sugar. This included dark, milk, white, and the more unusual ruby chocolate. Each sample had unique origins, characteristics textures and fruity, nutty notes. After a bit of light learning we got stuck right into it! We were taught the importance of carefully cleaning and decorating Easter egg moulds, whilst using splashes or brushes of colourful oil-based food colouring powders and gels. Some went for a glossier finish and others aimed for a more Matt rustic effect.
Once we had perfected the designs and set them in our moulds, we looked at the dark art of tempering the chocolate itself. We ended up using a 54% Belgium milk chocolate for this as it had a lighter and creamier taste; you must be very careful to follow the instructions on the manufacturers packaging as each chocolate will have its own working temperature. If you go above, you can ruin the shine, structure and snap of your chocolate.
Everyone had a go at filling their eggs and everyone was successful! Thanks to a very professional demonstration of technique from Rory Bailey. While our eggs set, we tasted a few more chocolate examples and looked at starting our water-based, ganache filled, chocolate trays and our chocolate bars. Returning to the set eggshells, we heated a flat plate and slightly melted the edges so we could join them together with the melted chocolate acting as the glue.
While they all set, we returned to the chocolate trays by piping, coffee, orange, raspberry and caramel into the moulds. By that point our eggs were almost complete we just needed to make
up boxes and the packaging to store our chocolate delights.
We finished off our trays by placing one more layer of chocolate on top to encase them and began tidying up the bomb site we had created in the process of having a lot of fun!
Thanks to Simon and his team, and ESS for inviting me to this mind-blowing event. I’ve made some wonderful connections and some amazing memories all while advancing my skills. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience!
AS1 William Green
RAF SKILLS DAY 2025
The 30th April – 1st May 2025 saw five RAF chefs and one AGS set their sights to cook up a storm at the annual RAF Culinary Skills day at CTW(A) Worthy Down.
The team from RAF Honington comprising of Cpl Hannah Scott (Team Captain), Cpl Anuj Gurung, AS1 Callum Dixon, AS1 William Green, AS1 Vanitta Gopaul and AS2 Cameron Moor looked to continue their success on the competition circuit after a successful outing in 2024.
The first day started off strong with Cpl Scott competing in the Open Dessert Plates Class attaining a bronze medal for her effort. AS2 Moor competed in the Junior Decorated Birthday Cake Class receiving a bronze medal to match. And to end the first day on a high, AS1 Green competed in the Open Hot Dessert Class, amazing the judges and deservingly receiving a gold medal and best in class in his first ever competition.
Onto the second day Cpl Gurung, AS1 Dixon and AS1 Gopaul were up against RAF Leeming in the Senior Cook and Serve Class. This class consists of 2 Chefs and 1 AGS providing a 3-course meal for 4
covers over 11/2 hours. The AGS was to serve to the highest of standards, whilst ensuring wine was paired with each course, and portioning the dessert and the quenelle of ice cream. It was crucial that they worked as a team throughout, to ensure maximum points.
The whole of the Honington team were around to help them get set up and ready for such an important competition. The judges were really impressed with how they worked and after all their hard efforts they received a well-deserved silver medal; a huge achievement from a team of 3 SCP that had never
previously competed in this class. This was my third time at the RAF Culinary Skills Day, and I can say without hesitation that this competition allows us to showcase our skills and knowledge in a wider catering environment away from daily messing. It is paramount in us continuing to bolster morale and confidence across the section. I feel as a team this has encouraged us work together more, and will hugely benefit us moving forward in the future with our current roles, and has given us the determination to compete again next year.
AS1 Callum Dixon
AUXILIUM FORT Exercise
ENABLEMENT AND BEYOND
RAF Global Enablement, integral to the Royal Air Force’s operational capabilities, have showcased their expertise during Exercise Auxilium Fort whilst working with colleagues from the Combined Joint Expeditionary Force (CJEF).
The exercise, held at RAF Honington, saw personnel from across RAF Global Enablement, secure and operate in a simulated decommissioned airfield, showcasing technical and core skills essential for operational readiness.
This year marks a significant milestone as CJEF colleagues took part in Exercise Auxilium Fort for the first time. The involvement
of the French Air and Space Force, French Service de l’Énergie Opérationelle, and the CPA 20 enhances interoperability and fosters mutual understanding among allied forces.
Air Commodore Paul Hamilton said: “I am honoured by the exceptional teamwork and proficiency demonstrated by our RAF Global Enablement Forces throughout Exercise Auxilium Fort. The collaboration with our
partners within CJEF highlights the significance of international cooperation in enhancing operational readiness and efficacy.”
Exercise Auxilium Fort specifically focuses on the ground-based component of the Royal Air Force, ensuring their capacity to facilitate the swift deployment of air power whilst working with our CJEF partners.
The CJEF, a multinational force
comprising land, air, and maritime components, demonstrated its interoperability and readiness alongside RAF Global Enablement Forces. This collaboration highlights the commitment of CJEF partners to work together seamlessly in various operational scenarios, further enhancing the collective defence capabilities of allied nations.
This joint effort underscores the importance of multinational
cooperation in addressing contemporary security challenges and reinforces the shared values of the RAF, French Air and Space Force, French Service de l’Énergie Opérationelle, and the CPA 20. The inclusion of CJEF in Exercise Auxilium Fort demonstrates the ongoing commitment to strengthening international partnerships and promoting security and stability in an ever-evolving global security landscape.
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1 Squadron RAF Regiment
Continuing the fast pace of the previous 12 months, 2025 has already shaped up to be a busy year, with the Sqn continuing various training and operational commitments. These include, Ex CHARIOT STRIKE, Ex ARMOURED STRIKE, Ex HEAVY STRIKE, Ex RAINING CHARIOT and localised deployment training prior to the Sqn holding VHR commitments as the RAF Regt Lead Element Sqn.
TRAINING
The Sqn has continued to train a myriad of capabilities during this period, notably Ex CHARIOT STRIKE whereby the Sqn deployed to Magilligan ranges in Northern Ireland, to complete mandatory annual live firing training. This included both rifle and pistol ACMT, as well as up to Flt level attack ranges. It was a rare opportunity for much of the Sqn to come together as a whole since Op TIMBERN.
Under the direction of OC 1 Sqn,
Support Weapons Flt enacted a programme of events to re-establish the 1 Sqn Mortar capability. This involved dry training at RAF Honington followed by live firing at Otterburn Training Area (Ex RAINING CHARIOT). At the same time, Sgt Matthews planned and implemented Ex HEAVY STRIKE, the Sqn Machine Gun Cadre and Live Firing, also conducted at Otterburn. From an AV(W) perspective, under Ex ARMOURED STRIKE, the Sqn deployed it’s FSG elements to
With the Sqn commencing VHR commitments in April, focus has shifted to personal and professional training as well taking advantages of organised AT activities and Sport.
Lulworth to maintain annual currency on the GPMG. Shoots were fired from the Foxhound, at both day and night. The ranges were designed to further enhance these skills at both short and long ranges.
SPORT/AT
LCpl Morris fully immersed himself in the Inter-Services RAF Rugby Union, firstly against the Royal Navy team and then against the Army, whilst AS1 Appleby represented the RAF Basketball team. A number of Sqn personnel took advantage of Ex ALPINE SERPENT, the CRF organised Adventurous Personal Development Training expedition to Val Thorens, France. The
training was a 1-week alpine skiing package incorporating members from units across the CRF split into mixed groups, to develop corps cohesion in a different environment.
The Sqn has seen several personnel posted in the previous months and we wish them all the very best in their new ventures.
ARKISH SURRISH
28 Engineer Regiment
SAPPERS LEARN VIKING SKILLS AT SUTTON HOO
Taking part in the Viking ship building experience with The Sutton Hoo Ships Company in Woodbridge, Suffolk was nothing short of extraordinary. Nestled near the legendary archaeological site of Sutton Hoo, this hands-on experience beautifully blends artisanry, history, and community spirit.
From the start, the team welcomed us with enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the Anglo-Saxon and Viking maritime traditions. The dedication they have to this project clearly shows how much this work means to them. What makes this experience stand out is how authentic and engaging it is—you’re not just watching history; you’re helping to build it. Using traditional tools and age-old techniques, we contributed to the reconstruction of an ancient ship, much like the one uncovered at Sutton Hoo.
The setting is surrounded by the scenic River Deben and the echoes of a rich past. Working alongside passionate volunteers and experts, we gained not just skills but stories—about shipbuilding, seafaring, and the cultural legacy of the early medieval period.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of hands-on craft, or just looking for a unique day out in Suffolk, this experience is an absolute gem. I left feeling connected to something far greater than myself, and I can’t wait to return and see the ship take shape!
Sapper Blue
2623 Squadron RAuxAF Regt
2623 SQN PROMOTIONS
Congratulations to Cpl Gent and Cpl King who following the successful completion of their FT2 promotion course had
the honour of being presented with their rank slides by RAF Honington Station Commander, Wg Cdr Max Hayward.
TREK 24 ENGAGEMENT EVENT
On Saturday 14 May 25, four members of The Wolf Sqn took part in TREK24 –Norfolk, a 24-mile march supporting the East Anglian Air Ambulance.
Not only was this an opportunity for The Wolf Sqn to positively engage with the public, raising the profile of both the Squadron and the Station, but more importantly it was a great opportunity to raise money for a worthwhile charity.
The East Anglian Air Ambulance receives no regular funding from the government and relies entirely on support from the community.
The Wolf Sqn was proud to play its part in keeping such an important organisation alive by raising an incredible £800.
Cpl Gent
Cpl King
THE WOLF SQN GUARDIAN DEDICATION
The Wolf Sqn was pleased to welcome its new Squadron Guardian in November 2024 which honoured its proud heritage as a Rapier Squadron. The restoration of the guardian was kindly funded and supported by the East of England Reserve Forces and Cadet Association (RFCA) which was key to its completion.
The Wolf Sqn were proud and honoured to welcome the Station Commander, Wing Commander Max Hayward, SWO, WO Gerry McGuire, and Chaplain, Sqn Ldr David Young to attend a dedication ceremony. Here the Padre conducted a short prayer service to bless the Squadron guardian, and to ask it to watch over and protect the squadron and its gunners.
MEDAL PRESENTATIONS
Congratulations to L/Cpl Otis Smith and AS1 Avi Tuscano who had the honour of having their respective VRSM (Volunteer Reserve
Service Medal), and King Charles III Coronation Medals presented by the RAF Honington Station Commander, Wg Cdr Max Hayward.
LCpl Otis Smith
AS Avi Tuscano
RAF REGIMENT
TRAINING WING
From the very start of 2025, RTS(A) has continued to deliver a variety of advanced courses in order to professionally develop and prepare RAF Regt personnel across a broad spectrum of disciplines. The Specialist Courses Flt Sniper Section delivered a 9-week Basic Sniper Course to 12 students from across the Force. The course was made up of a foundation week, 2 weeks of ranges, 2 weeks of navigation, 2 weeks of enhanced fieldcraft skills, and a 2-week final exercise. The majority of the course was conducted on Otterburn Training Area in Northumberland, and weather conditions varied greatly which made it exceptionally demanding for the students. Concurrently to this, the Sniper Section have been preparing to conduct the Sniper Concentration which will begin on 28 Apr 25. The concentration will see a number of sniper teams from across the Regt pitted against each other in competition in specialist sniper skillsets. Moreover, it isn’t just teams from across the RAF Regt that are present; the French and German’s have both put teams forward also, making this year’s competition highly competitive.
The week after the Basic Sniper Course had started, the Further Training (FT) Flt began to deliver the 5-week long FT2 to 29 students from across the Force. This course is developed to train LCpls to operate
effectively as Sect Cdrs in charge of 7 other Gunners. Throughout the course, the students operated on a 24hrs on, 8hrs off routine. This routine slowly erodes the students mentality, depleting concentration and testing their desire to fight and willingness to continue. However, it is necessary that all students are forged in some fire and exposed to hardships to ensure they can lead and command in the harshest of environments. Photo 1 shows the 21 students left standing after the final exercise.
Shortly after the FT2, the FT Flt delivered an FT1. Similar to the FT2, this course is designed to introduce AS1s to first appointment of command – being a LCpl. Responsible for administration, supporting the Sect Cdr, and managing Section discipline, the role of a Sect 2IC can be very difficult and very lonely at times. The 4-week long course ended
with a 5-hour long Sqn Attack which exposed all students to the reality of operating in a volatile and uncertain environment. At the end of the course, 21 of the students successfully graduated. Photo 2 shows those successful.
Concurrently, the Junior Regiment Officers Flt closed down their last course, JROC129, which graduated towards the back end of 2024. Alongside this, they were preparing for their next course, which started on 22 Apr 25. This course is now being delivered, and 22 students are present.
RTS (B)
SALALAH FLT
The 20 TGs of Salalah Flt (TG524) have been working hard and progressing their way through the TG course having deployed on numerous exercises over the last
3 months, including Competent Patrol Member, an important milestone in the course to show their ability to soldier and to decide if they are progressing correctly on Course. The Course now enters the final leg as they prepare to Complete Ex OMEGA, their final assessment to be RAF Regiment gunners. In Addition, they are preparing to complete the LFTT package in Sennybridge this May. The Gunners of Salalah are also preparing to Complete their Charity sporting event for the Centurion Fund where they will Run, Row, Bike and Ski the collective hights of the tallest peaks in the UK and Cycle the distances between them.
EL ALAMEIN FLT
El Alamein Flight have been busy since the new year, conducting a range of training and development. Starting off the new year, the course deployed to STANTA via Chinook to complete their
Component Patrol Member Exercise. This enabled the assessment of their ability to operate in a section both day and night, with a wide range of scenarios consistently challenging them. Sgt Fleming was particularly active in developing updated sit reps and ‘insurgent’ media for the troops, creating a realistic scenario. On return to RAF Honington, the 6 troops who remained on the Flight conducted Pistol and Close Quarter Marksmanship shoots to qualify them to operate in the CAGE. After time spent at TACSIS completing Bowman training and completion of the GPMG ACMT, the troops went on 2 weeks of leave before joining Salalah Flight to complete the rest of their time at Training Wing.
Outside of training, the staff on El Alamein Flight managed to conduct a range of FD and AT. This included a trip to Bury St
Edmunds to conduct stands around the town, as well as a week of parachuting in Cyprus. The participants reached a competent level to conduct single static line jumps, and all enjoyed themselves feeling suitably challenged. Thanks goes to Sgt Fleming for organising.’
MEIKTILA FLT
Meiktila Trainee Gunner course 1-25 arrived at RAF Honington on Easter Sunday. 44 starry eyed potential Gunners descended on BB337 with all their worldly possessions ready to start the new 24-week TG Course. This date also coincided with the arrival of the new OC Meiktila Flt Lt Jaime Symonds from Kings Colour Squadron (KCS). Since arriving both TGs and OC have been inundated
with information and have had to quickly find their place at RTS (B). The TGs have started their first few weeks with Air Force protection lessons, learning about airfield security and the history of the RAF Regiment.
Moving on to weapons lessons and once they all passed their WHTs they moved to the Honington 25m Barrack Range to start their live firing package which will see them go from Zeroing their individual weapons all the way up to Annual Combat Marksmanship Test (ACMT) and limited night visibility shooting. The TGs are enjoying their 1st few weeks at Honington and look forward to conducting some more advanced training in the coming weeks.
Our 12 modern suites all include Kitchenettes for home cooking | 5 Star Hotel bed linen Digital self-check-in Super-fast Wi-Fi
Web: www.thetfordhive.co.uk | Email: booking@thetfordhive.co.uk | 24 Whitehart St, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 1AD
Thetford Hive: Your Stylish Base Near RAF Honington
Fancy a proper place to stay near RAF Honington that’s as smart as it is convenient? Thetford Hive, Thetford’s brand-new aparthotel, is just 8 miles—a 12-minute drive—from the air base, making it a perfect choice for RAF personnel, visiting partners, friends or family. Nestled in the heart of Thetford’s lively town centre, you’re only a short stroll from the pubs, restaurants, and local shops.
Freshly refurbished to a fantastic standard, Thetford Hive blends sharp, stylish design with all the practical bits you need. The suites range from sleek studios to a spacious one-bedroom duplex suite, each boasting king-size beds for a proper night’s sleep, air conditioning to keep things cool, and modern rain showers that add a touch of indulgence. Fully equipped kitchenettes let you rustle up a quick brekkie or a late-night snack, while superfast Wi-Fi keeps you connected for work or streaming. With secure private parking sorted, you can come and go without a faff, whether you’re popping to the base or exploring Thetford’s buzzing high street.
Thetford Hive is built for flexibility, making it ideal for a weekend getaway with your other half or a longer stay for visiting family. The variety of room sizes caters to solo travellers, couples, or larger groups, so you’ve got space to make yourself at home. It’s functional enough for RAF life—think easy access to Honington and plenty of room to unwind—but stylish enough to impress your guests.
To celebrate our launch, we’re offering brilliant rates that won’t sting the wallet. RAF personnel can also enjoy an extra 5% off until the end of 2025 with the code RAFHIVE5—our way of saying many thanks for your service. Book your stay at www.thetfordhive.co.uk and see why Thetford Hive is the talk of the town. Short visit or longer stay, this is your base for comfort and style near Honington.
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Love where you live
Nestled in the beautiful Breckland countryside and just 10 miles from Honington, East Harling is a thriving village that o ers everything from local shops and schools to a vibrant sports and social scene.
With Thetford Forest, Norwich, Bury St Edmunds and Cambridge within easy reach, a strong sense of community, and the convenience of excellent transport links, this is rural living without compromise.
Once you visit, you’ll understand why families choose to stay.
