Refurbishment work at RAF Lossiemouth received royal approval on Friday when the Duke of York visited the Moray base in his capacity as the station’s Honorary Air Commodore.
The royal visitor received a conducted tour of the newly refurbished facilities at the base led by Group Captain Mark Chappell, Lossiemouth’s station commander.
Included in the tour was the Emulated Deployable Cockpit Trainer (EDCT) used to provide simulated flying training for Typhoon crews.
The ECDT instructor, Flight Lieutenant Peter Geddes, briefed the Duke on the role and capabilities of the Typhoon while Flight Lieutenant Gary Montgomery explained the importance of the ECDT in preparing pilots for operational training.
The Duke took the opportunity to speak to Squadron engineers about the advanced electronics that are an everyday part of modern fast jets.
His Royal Highness then enjoyed lunch in the Officers’ Mess and completed the traditional part of any royal visit by signing the Station visitors’ book.
With the task of Quick Reaction Alert (Interceptor) North (QRA) now being RAF Lossiemouth’s primary role, the Duke was keen to see the QRA personnel currently on duty.
He was shown the engineers and pilots on-call area and viewed the Typhoon aircraft sitting ready for any ‘scramble’, while Squadron Leader Jim Lee of 6 Squadron how the aircraft and personnel have to be on standby 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Group Captain Chappell said Prince Andrew took great interest in the flying capabilities of the Typhoon, adding: “The Duke’s previous flying experience was obvious during his visit, he was very interested in the technicalities of the Typhoon’s engineering and its reliance on modern electronics.
“Although his flying skills were not put to the test he showed remarkable awareness of the issues faced by today’s aviators.
“It is always a privilege to meet the Duke and we hope it won’t be long before he is able to join us again.”