RAF reserves from a Glasgow-based Squadron have stood up a new space unit.
The “Flight” is initially formed of three spare-time personnel from 602 (City of Glasgow) Squadron who will assist UK Space Command as space becomes an increasingly important UK defence domain.
The stand up was marked by a ceremony at the University of Strathclyde on Wednesday, which saw the recruits receive their UK Space Command patches, having passed their space foundation course. More recruits are currently undergoing training, which will boost the flight numbers even further.
“This occasion is a reminder that the RAuxAF has been developing in step with the RAF for a hundred years in order to provide operational support to the regular service.
A century ago people could join the Auxiliary Air Force to learn to fly biplanes, today they can join the RAuxAF to assist with the defence of our country’s space interests.”
Air Vice-Marshal Ranald Munro
Commandant General of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force
Air Vice-Marshal Paul Godfrey, Commander of UK Space Command, presented the new members of the flight with their UK Space Command patches.
“Reserves have always played a critical role across the armed forces. Their skill sets and specialist knowledge from their civilian lives enhance how we think, and how we operate.
I’m honoured and excited to be able to welcome these new space reserves, who will bring new perspectives and ideas to our work.”
Air Vice-Marshal Paul Godfrey
Commander of UK Space Command
602 Squadron now joins 607 (County of Durham) Squadron and 7006 Squadron (based at RAF Waddington) as units able to offer people from civilian life the opportunity to work in direct support of UK Space Command in their spare time as members of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force.
