RAF Waddington reopens after £35.4M runway upgrade

RAF Waddington has fully reopened its runway after a heavily delayed £35.4M upgrade was finally completed.

The runway was closed in late 2014 to allow the work to be undertaken with expectation that it would be back in action within 12 months.

Described by the RAF as one of the “most challenging defence airfield infrastructure projects for many years”, delays including harsh weather and the discovery of an 80 year old training mortar led to work lapsing in 2016.

The upgrade has seen the profile of the runway change plus the creation of new perimeter road, and improvements in safety that includes new visual airfield approach aids, aeronautical lighting and signage.

The upgrade project meant that RAF Waddington’s’ flying squadrons had been operating from other airbases but will now be able to return following its successful completion.

The airbase is home to the RAF’s Air Command surveillance and reconnaissance assets and has distinguished history being part of Bomber Command during the Second World War. It continues to play a key role with its intelligence gathering capabilities in the coalition air campaign to defeat ISIS and other campaigns around the world.

RAF Waddington Station Commander, Group Captain Al Marshall said: “This has been a major and very challenging project, which has placed significant pressure on personnel and their families.

“Despite the challenges, we have managed to sustain operational output throughout the resurfacing period owing to the outstanding dedication and professionalism of RAF Waddington personnel and those who support us.

“It will give me great pleasure to see many personnel return home and to have our aircraft regularly flying in and out of RAF Waddington once again.”

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