Flight Lieutenant Christopher Deen
About Flight Lieutenant Christopher Deen
RED 9
Years with the Red Arrows: First year
Joined the RAF: 2009
RAF CAREER
Chris completed elementary flying training on the Tutor at RAF Cranwell and basic fast-jet training on the Tucano at RAF Linton-on-Ouse before going to RAF Valley to finish advanced fast-jet training on the Hawk T1.
After flying training, he completed the Tornado GR4 operational conversion unit at RAF Lossiemouth before being posted to IX(B) Sqn at RAF Marham. He took part in operations in the Middle East as well as several multi-national exercises in Norway, the Netherlands and Sardinia, Italy.
He was lucky enough to be selected for an exchange tour with the United States Navy, flying the F/A-18 E & F Super Hornet on VFA-122 out of NAS Lemoore, California. He trained new pilots and weapon systems officers in all aspects of operating the jet. He completed numerous detachments to both El Centro and Key West and conducted a carrier qualification aboard USS Abraham Lincoln, earning his USN wings and finishing his brief naval career with a 100 per cent boarding rate.
On returning to the UK, he completed his third conversion unit, flying the Typhoon on 29 Squadron at RAF Coningsby before staying on as an instructor, again training new pilots. Here he completed exercises in Spain as well as Quick Reaction Alert duties defending the UK.
EDUCATION AND LIFE BEFORE THE RAF
- Born in Reading, Berkshire
- Educated at Reading Blue Coat School
- Studied general engineering at Durham University
- Member of Northumbrian Universities’ Air Squadron