New Military Cargo Facility opened at RAF Coningsby
Mission Critical Equipment for the Typhoon Force at RAF Coningsby can now be prepared for operations faster than ever after a new cargo handling facility was opened at the station.
In military language, the new building allows RAF Coningsby to fulfil “Purple Gate Customs Bonding”. This means that military equipment and supplies can be properly stored once they’re ready to be taken overseas, and that host nations know the cargo is safe and legal. This includes making sure there are no stowaways on board: biosecurity and unplanned introduction of foreign species is a serious concern around the world. The new building is now the responsibility of RAF Movers (the RAF Coningsby’s Movements Section), who can be more confident in ensuring no indigenous British species are accidentally onboard any cargo heading to a partner nation.
Officer Commanding Logistics Squadron, Squadron Leader Phil Bishop, said: “The handling of military freight is a detailed business, especially when it’s going overseas. We must conform to our own customs standards, but also to the standards of the nation we’re deploying to. To do that safely and securely, and not get under anyone else’s feet, a dedicated building is essential.”
Coningsby’s new cargo handling facility is large enough to operate 16-tonne forklifts inside, and can hold enough freight to fill a C-17 Globemaster aircraft (that’s over 45,000kg worth!). The building also includes solar panels, which provide the electricity it needs to be carbon neutral.
Royal Engineers from the Army provided oversight to the project. Captain Chris Davison said: “Value for the taxpayer is the thing. Milestone payments were only made when the work was completed to a high standard, and we made sure that the contractors and subcontractors followed health and safety legislation throughout the build. The new building has got to be safe, fit for purpose, and represent a good deal for Defence.”
Officially opened on 16th October by Wing Commander Nick Startup, Officer Commanding Base Support Wing, the building swung immediately into use. Wing Commander Startup said: “Firstly, congratulations to the team from Station Support Squadron in pulling this together. The Typhoon Force deploys all over the world, and this building allows our Movers to ensure the squadrons have the right equipment in the right place at the right time, to have what they need to fly and fight.”