Three AirTanker Sponsored Reservist pilots have been presented with their Royal Air Force Pilot Flying Badges, marking an important milestone in their military flying careers and service within the Voyager Force.
The Royal Air Force Flying Badges, also known as ‘Wings’, were presented by Air Vice-Marshal Simon Strasdin, CBE, during a ceremony attended by family members, colleagues and leaders from across Voyager Force. The presentation recognised the successful completion of military flying training and the professional standards expected of regular Royal Air Force Aircrew.
While each pilot arrived with significant experience from commercial aviation, earning their Wings reflects a different achievement. It marks their commitment to military service and their readiness to contribute to Defence operations as members of the Royal Air Force.
Regular RAF pilots are awarded their Wings on completion of advanced flying training before moving on to a front-line aircraft type. Sponsored Reservist pilots follow a different route. Employed by AirTanker as civilian-licensed Airbus A330 pilots, they also serve as commissioned officers in the RAF Reserve. Following recruit and officer training, they complete Voyager conversion training and qualify in both military air transport and air-to-air refuelling roles. RAF Wings are awarded once they are qualified to undertake operational duties on Voyager.
Sponsored Reservists are a distinctive part of Voyager Force. Employed by AirTanker and serving in uniform alongside their RAF colleagues, they combine extensive aviation experience with military service. They bring valuable skills and experience to the Force while meeting the same standards, responsibilities and commitments expected of regular Royal Air Force personnel.
Voyager Force brings together RAF personnel, Sponsored Reservists, AirTanker specialists, and the National Armaments Director Group in one integrated team. Working side by side, they help deliver the UK's Air-to-Air Refuelling and Strategic Air Transport capability, supporting sovereign and allied operations in the UK and around the world.
Wing Commander Nick Brook, Officer Commanding 10 Squadron, said:
“Receiving RAF Wings is a proud moment in any pilot’s career. These officers brought significant commercial aviation experience to Voyager Force, then completed the military training required to serve on operations. Their wings recognise their professionalism, commitment to military service and contribution to operational delivery.”
Wing Commander Nick Brook
Officer Commanding 10 Squadron
Jim Plumstead, Director of People and Business Support at AirTanker, said:
“We are incredibly proud to see three SR Pilots receive their RAF Wings. As AirTanker employees, they already bring a wealth of aviation experience to Voyager Force. Their achievement reflects the commitment required to combine commercial flying with military training and operational service.”
Jim Plumstead
Director of People and Business Support
AirTanker
Different routes to Voyager Force
Two officers followed different routes into the Sponsored Reservist programme. One began elementary training with the RAF through a University Air Squadron before pursuing a career in civil aviation, while the other had no previous military experience and qualified as a commercial pilot before joining AirTanker. Both completed the full Sponsored Reservist recruit and officer training pipeline, graduating from RAF College Cranwell in April 2025.
A third officer began his career in the British Army, serving in the Intelligence Corps before retraining as a commercial pilot and joining AirTanker as a Sponsored Reservist.
All three pilots have qualified in air-to-air refuelling, deployed to operational theatres and flown missions in support of Operation Shader and Op Leadproof.
AirTanker Sponsored Reservist, Flight Lieutenant Jonnie, said:
“Receiving my RAF Wings is a proud moment and the result of a lot of hard work over the last few years. What attracted me to the Sponsored Reservist role was the opportunity to combine a commercial flying career with military service. It gives you the chance to contribute directly to Defence operations while continuing to do the job you love, and that's something quite special."
Flight Lieutenant Jonnie
AirTanker Sponsored Reservist
AirTanker Sponsored Reservist, Flight Lieutenant Andy said:
“Being a Sponsored Reservist gives you experiences that are difficult to find elsewhere in aviation. The opportunity to serve alongside the RAF, deploy on operations and support global missions adds a different dimension to your flying career. Receiving my RAF Wings is a significant milestone and one I'm incredibly proud of achieving.”
Flight Lieutenant Andy
AirTanker Sponsored Reservist
The ceremony also recognised the support of families, friends, instructors and colleagues who helped each pilot reach this milestone.
