RAF Police Military Working Dog teams from across the UK and Cyprus have arrived at RAF Honington to battle it out to be crowned ‘Top Dog’ at the 2023 RAF Police Military Working Dog Trials.
Eight teams from RAF Akrotiri, Benson, Brize Norton, Lossiemouth, Marham, Odiham and Waddington will spend the week being put through their paces in a variety of operational scenarios which includes the core skills of agility and obedience, threat perception during day and night patrols and a dog’s ability to detect and detain intruders through wind scent capabilities.
“Military Working Dog Trials provide handlers and their dogs an aspiration to enhance their operational skillset and further develop their performance and ability, naturally resulting in a well-rounded and confident operational MWD team. It also allows the Air Security Force the opportunity to showcase their capabilities and celebrate the dedication of our RAF Police and their dogs.”
Warrant Officer Claire Bullen
Provost Marshal Dog Inspector
The teams will be whittled down for the final day, where they will be tested further in front of guests including Air Officer Global Enablement, Air Commodore Jamie Thompson, Lady Kemball and Provost Marshal (RAF) Group Captain Russ Foster-Jones.
Military Working Dog Trials represent the core values shared between the Handlers and their Dog companions, while inspiring the current and future generations of the RAF to develop their skills in the pursuit of excellence. Military Working Dogs play a vital role supporting RAF Police Handlers to protect people and fight crime. Equipped with their sensory superpowers, the Dogs are a strength unrivalled by the most advanced modern technology.
Check out RAF social media on 22nd September to find out the winner of the 2023 Police Military Working Dog Trials. Daily updates on the RAF Police social media pages.
