June 14, 2023
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Members of Moray Chamber of Commerce had the opportunity to visit Scotland’s only Royal Air Force base, RAF Lossiemouth, on 31 May.
The event was part of the ChamberFORCE initiative, a project that is match-funded by Amazon. Inbound Area Manager Robbie Crook and Area Manager Scott Chappell represented Amazon.
The guests were shown around RAF Lossiemouth by the Station’s engagement team and Squadron Leader Chris Beckley, Officer Commanding of 2622 (Highland) Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force (RAuxAF) Regiment. The visit provided an insight into the Station’s outputs, growth and investment, as well as the skills service leavers and RAF Reserves can offer local employers.
Highlights of the visit included a visit to the Atlantic Building, home of the Boeing Poseidon MRA1 (P-8A) aircraft. The aircraft are used for maritime surveillance as well as anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare. Chamber members had the opportunity to get inside the aircraft for a closer look at some of its capabilities, including its sonobuoys.
The group also visited II (Army Co-operation) Squadron that operates one of the latest fighter aircraft in the RAF fleet, the Typhoon FGR Mk 4. This is an extremely agile fourth-generation multi-role combat aircraft with capabilities spanning the entire spectrum of air operations, from air policing and peace support to high-intensity conflict.
Guests departed the Station with a deeper understanding of the essential work of the RAF, RAF Lossiemouth, and Defence as a whole.
The visit also provided an opportunity for Highland RFCA Regional Employer Engagement Director Ray Watt to meet with new companies in the Moray area who may be interested in signing the Armed Forces Covenant and taking part in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS).
■ ChamberFORCE is a partnership programme between selected Chambers of Commerce in Scotland and their local Navy, Army and RAF units, designed to bring tangible benefits to Chamber members and to Defence. The founding Chambers of Commerce have all signed the Armed Forces Covenant and achieved ERS Gold Awards: Fife Chamber of Commerce, Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce, Moray Chamber of Commerce and Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce.
All images MOD © Crown Copyright.
