Command of Number 99 Squadron, based at RAF Brize Norton, has been officially handed over from Wing Commander Will Essex
to Wing Commander Nikki Lofthouse, who becomes the
first female commander of the Squadron, now the
largest in the Royal Air Force.
The handover took place on the RAF Brize Norton airfield next to the Globemaster (C-17) aircraft, which 99 Squadron operate.
Wing Commander Essex said:
“It has been an absolute privilege and honour to command 99 Squadron for the past two and half years. From supporting operations in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, to undertaking our element of Operation London Bridge/Overstudy with the dignity and solemnity that it deserved, the people of 99 Squadron have performed exceptionally well in every respect. Collectively, in addition, we have delivered new capabilities onto the aircraft and improved the contingent readiness of the Squadron in the last two years. This has all been down to the hard work and professionalism of the personnel of 99 Squadron and I am hugely thankful for their support.”
Wing Commander Will Essex
On taking command, Wing Commander Lofthouse said:
“Thank you to Wing Commander Will Essex, whose leadership has set the Squadron so well for the future. It is an absolute privilege to take Command of such an incredible group of people and I am already proud of how they deliver for Operations every single day. As Officer Commanding 99 Squadron, I promise to do my very best for each and every one of our team. Quisique Tenax – ‘Each Tenacious’.”
Wing Commander Nikki Lofthouse
Officer Commanding Number 99 Squadron
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