FighterControl

I have heard rumours that most of the Hawks will be leaving the base next year, leaving about 9 aircraft. Does anyone have any information as to the validity of this story? a sad day indeed if this is true, and if so will Valley close for good? We should line up this government behind some Tornado's and light the fires.

Where are they going

Mark,

Don't know where you are getting these rumours from. Can't say I've heard anything. But it might be a simple runway resurfacing work, ie temp reposition for that.

Other than that I'd be very very surprised,

Steve

P.s. Fingers crossed just incase

The way i see it is the numbers will definately fall,with the Harriers gone and a reduction in the Tornado fleet they wont be training as many pilots.I dont actually know how many are trained a year at present but it would be interesting to know what theyve been told for next year.Im also guessing less aircraft at Valley,less jobs on base.I really hope not and I hate to sound negative but its just my thoughts.
Cheers Dave.

Would have to say that the base will be underthreat, no fast jets left in the RAF, once the Tornado as gone.
Typhoon and JSF can all be done via sim, and twin stick.

So the Base as a very slim future.Unless they base the JSF at Valley , a good location in my view,

Slightly off-topic, but what happens to the guys over at 100Sqn, FRADU and the Reds when the T.1s retire?

I'd assume they'll keep flying their T.1's? Parts won't really be too hard to come by I suppose!

If it is true that the T1's will be gone by mid 2012, this will free up airfield space to allow the long rumoured move of a reduced Tucano fleet from Linton to Valley. All training consolidated at one base - makes sense to me.
(Just my thought's, have'nt heard anything to back up my ramblings.)

Some interesting remarks and rumours to chew on there. Thanks for all the replies.
Mark.

I spent seven happy years maintaining the Hawks at the 'local' (even though Shawbury is nearer to me!), it will be a very sad day if Valley loses anymore of it's flying assets.