Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon has this week unveiled a newly restored runway at RAF Valley during a trip to Anglesey, Wales.
Currently, RAF Valley provides pilots with advanced fast jet training. And yet, while existing infrastructure was adequate for Hawk aircraft, the runway required a comprehensive overhaul to accommodate training in Tornado and Typhoon fighters.
The £20M refurbishment has also seen the creation of a new section of air-side perimeter road, in addition to visual aids, aeronautical lighting and accompanying signage. Crucially, these measures will help prolong RAF Valley’s lifespan by some 25 years.
“This famous runway has been an integral part of the careers of generations of fast-jet pilots who have seen action across the world and are currently leading RAF strikes against Daesh,” said Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon. “I’m delighted that this investment will see the runway play that vital role for at least another 25 years, training new pilots in the skills they need to help keep us safe when flying the next generation of aircraft.”
UK Government Minister for Wales Guto Bebb added: “This £20M investment in the runway is a huge boost to RAF Valley. It further demonstrates the UK Government’s commitment to defence in Wales and the North Wales economy.
“It is great to see Wales playing such an important role in the advancement of our defence services and with an extra 25 years now on the lifespan of this site, the future of RAF Valley and the local economy remains strong.”
Meanwhile, a newly-refurbished hangar at RAF Valley will house three brand new Jupiter helicopters, each of which will be used to train pilots across all three services as part of the UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS). The state-of-the-art Airbus helicopters, which replicate the cockpits and controls of front-line aircraft, will take to the skies later this year.
The hangar refurbishment forms part of an infrastructure improvement programme, delivered through the UKMFTS at both RAF Valley and RAF Shawbury, and worth an estimated £80M.
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