A cross party group of MSP’s visited RAF Lossiemouth as part of the MSP Armed Forces Visit Programme.
Accompanied by Air Officer Scotland, Air-Vice Marshal Ross Paterson CB OBE, the MSP’s were given a tour of the RAFs new Sub-Hunter aircraft the P-8A Poseidon and visited the stations Typhoon force as they continue to support UK Global interests and NATO operations.
The MSPs also met with a range of personnel and service families to gain an understanding of the operational output of the station and how they can be better supported in the local area as the station continues to grow.
Speaking outside RAF Lossiemouth’s new Atlantic Building, home of the P8, Air-Vice Marshal Paterson said:
“After an enforced gap in the MSP Visit Programme due to Covid, I’m delighted that today we have been
able to show our MSPs something of the work of the Royal Air Force here in Scotland and to see our people
at work and learn more about their roles and how they directly contribute to protecting our national interests
at home and overseas.”Air Vice Marshal Paterson
The Programme was launched in 2016 to help informing MSPs about the roles and capabilities of Defence, with the specific aim of enabling MSPs to see personnel of all 3 Services at work in Scotland. Visits to each Service are typically held alternate years and attract MSP interest across the whole political spectrum. As well as seeing Service personnel and equipment, visits invariably also include sessions with Service families and the chance for MSPs to learn more about their experience of living and working in Scotland.
Station Commander of RAF Lossiemouth, Group Captain Jim Lee said:
“We were delighted to welcome the cross-party group of MSPs to RAF Lossiemouth. With a high
operational tempo at home and abroad, RAF Lossiemouth is pivotal to the defence of the UK and its
interests and therefore important that our politicians can see first hand how hard working, professional and capable our people are.”Group Captain Jim Lee