'Safely making aircrafts dangerous’
The Weapon Training Cell (WTC) consists of six Weapon Technicians, skilled and qualified on Typhoon weapons and instructor duties. They deliver theoretical and practical training daily to all Weapon personnel on Weapon preparation, Typhoon Ejection Seats and Typhoon Weapon systems including regular competency checks for all staff.
“Behind every Operational mission, QRA (Quick Reaction Alert) launch and training sortie, is a team of highly skilled Armourers making it happen!" -Sergeant Beswick
Before the weapons even get to the aircraft they need to be assembled and prepared. This is where WTC excels, delivering training to a team of Armourers in building and testing of weapon systems. Once trained, these personnel can deploy around the world in support of Typhoon Operations.
WTC is also responsible for delivering Typhoon aircraft crash/rescue procedures and pre-deployment training to Firemen and Medics RAF-wide.
“Safety is paramount here at WTC, which is why we work tirelessly to maintain standards and keep up to date with training across the Typhoon Force. A missile which is incorrectly fitted on to the Typhoon could have catastrophic consequences” - Sergeant Trevascus
The high standards set by WTC ensures that Coningsby can fulfil its NATO commitment of QRA. Due to the nature of QRA, the pilots and the aircraft need to always be ready, therefore, the specialist training received by Squadron weapon load teams ensures aircraft are always loaded and ready to launch at a moment’s notice, 24 hours a day.
"The RAF Coningsby Weapon Training Cell carries out its business with the utmost professionalism, delivering a high standard of training in safe practices for Coningsby's armourers, the RAF's firefighters and more." -Flight Lieutenant Suter
As well as instructing RAF personnel, WTC also trains the QEAF (Qatari Emirates Air Force) Weapon Engineers. This international agreement allows us to demonstrate how useful our skills and knowledge are to other countries. A bespoke 3-week course has been designed to train a team of four on Typhoon weapons and has been very successful, not only instilling best practices but also providing us with an insight into Qatari culture.
