Survival equipment and weapons specialists from RAF Lossiemouth were on hand at the Moray Science Festival showing off part of the wide variety of engineering opportunities available in the Royal Air Force.
The festival, held at Moray College, was being held for a 22nd successive year – and the RAF’s display was as popular as ever.
Personnel from the Survival Equipment Section prepared one of the largest stands at the event organised by a team led by Corporal Jimi Duncan with SAC’s Stephen Shields and Jordan Rea and LAC Stu Hodges presenting an interactive display that proved popular with visitors.
The children were particularly keen to use and operate equipment, and the RAF personnel were able to explain the technical requirements of important items like ejector seats, life rafts and flying clothing.
Weapons ranging from service issue pistols to General Purpose Machine Guns were also taken to the Festival from the Station Armoury.
Warrant Officer Dave Melville and Corporal Guy Pinch presented another interactive display that proved popular with the public who had an opportunity to handle real weapons. WO Melville and Cpl Pinch were able to demonstrate the function and dismantle the weapons, explaining each piece from an engineering point of view.
Flying Officer Steve Walton, Officer Commanding Armament Engineering Flight, who co-ordinated the RAF personnel and equipment, said: “This was a great opportunity to display the engineering and technology we use on a day-to-day basis at RAF Lossiemouth as well as showcasing the knowledge and skill required of our airmen and women.
“Being able to do this, whilst supporting the local community and hopefully inspiring the younger generation to pursue engineering, is always a rewarding experience.”
The day was extremely successful with a lot of positive comments about the access to equipment provided by the RAF Lossiemouth personnel; so much so that the team have already been invited to next year’s event!