Ascension Island Base sits under the UK Cyber & Specialist Operations Command (CSOC) Chain of Command and is positioned approximately 4,000 miles from the UK and the Falkland Islands.
The role of the Station is to deter military aggression against the UK’s South Atlantic Overseas Territories to maintain UK sovereignty. Additionally, it is a staging post for flights between the UK and the Falkland Islands.
Brigadier Charlie Harmer graduated from Harper Adams Agricultural College in 2000 and commissioned into the Royal Regiment of Artillery in 2001. His operational experience includes Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq.
After graduating from the Higher Command and Staff Course (HCSC) in 2022, Brig Harmer was appointed Regimental Colonel Royal Artillery. He assumed command of British Forces South Atlantic Islands in June 2025.
Following 13 years of service as an RAF Policewoman, Wg Cdr Bearsby commissioned into the Logistics Branch in 2004.
Her logistics career has been varied, covering Op HERRICK, Op SHADER, and numerous overseas locations. Notably as the PSO to Director, Wg Cdr Bearsby wasthe first female into MODSAP Saudi Arabia.
Wg Cdr Bearsby assumed the role of Commander Ascension Island Base in October 2025.
RAF Ascension Island Base, BFPO 677.
