More about this squadron

501 Squadron is a force protection squadron manned by Gunners. The squadron is part of No 4 Force Protection Wing.

Training as a Gunner is varied and challenging – you could be firing live weapons on a range, learning unarmed combat in the gym, abseiling from helicopters or learning survival skills. You might also find yourself on exercise with your regular counterparts either in the UK or overseas or on a specialist training course.

History and heritage

Our squadron was formed in 1929, making us one of the oldest and most distinguished units in the RAF Reserves. During the Second World War, we won seven battle honours flying fighter aircraft. After being disbanded in the 1950s, we were reformed in 2001 as a force protection squadron. Our achievements were recognised in 2006 when we were granted the Freedom of the County of Gloucestershire, making us the first and only squadron to be awarded such an honour.

Roles and specialist skills

Gunners make up the ground-fighting troops of the RAF and are trained to provide ground defence to prevent attacks on airfields and keep the flight pathways clear.

As a Gunner, you will have to master a range of skills, which include infantry tactics, covert observation, target acquisition and close combat skills. Gunners also receive specialist weapons training, so you will become an expert at handling everything from a bayonet to an anti-tank missile.

Combat training is physically and mentally demanding and can take place anywhere in the world, from the jungle to the arctic. Gunners need to be fit, active and prepared to endure difficult and demanding situations, so you’re likely to enjoy playing sport or keeping fit, working outdoors and being part of a team. You must be able to swim at least 100 metres.

For reasons of operational effectiveness, women cannot be accepted for this role.

Recent deployments

In 2003, our entire squadron was deployed as part of Operation Telic in Iraq. We continued to deploy our Reservists to reinforce regular RAF Regiment force protection squadrons in Basra until the end of 2007. Since 2006, our Gunners have been deployed as part of regular RAF Regiment squadrons in Afghanistan, including the southern provinces, Camp Bastion and Kabul.

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