RAF Brize Norton News

New Vehicles, Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Tactics for RAF Brize Norton

RAF Brize Norton is home to the largest Fire Section in the Royal Air Force. With four different aircraft types and 481 hectares of land, the RAF firefighters are on standby 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, ready to respond to any fire hazard both on the airfield or within the Station’s infrastructure estate.

Pictured on the airfield with a C17 Globemaster, these new vehicles will improve firefighting capability at RAF Brize Norton
Pictured on the airfield with a C17 Globemaster, these new vehicles will improve firefighting capability at RAF Brize Norton

The team of firefighters have recently taken delivery of five new fire engines, replacing the existing Rapid Intervention Vehicle (RIV) and Major Foam Vehicle (MFV). The new fleet will significantly increase vehicle reliability, availability and will also improve capability and firefighter safety.

Pictured, three of the new vehicles, fitted with the latest firefighting equipment
Pictured, three of the new vehicles, fitted with the latest firefighting equipment

One of the most significant innovations in recent years has been the introduction of a high reach extendable turret (HRET), this can be positioned low for undercarriage fires or for placing foam under and around escape slides on larger aircraft. The HRET can also be used in controlling and extinguishing running fuel fires from aircraft engines, resulting in the firefighters not having to be in close proximity to the fire hazard. 

These new vehicles are also equipped with aircraft skin penetrating nozzle equipment (ASPN), these can be forced through aircraft skin and in effect introduce a ‘sprinkler system’ to reduce the fire spread, prior to the firefighters entering with their breathing apparatus; ultimately reducing the risk presented to our personnel.

Working closely with Capita Fire and Rescue, who have introduced the new vehicles across Defence, the firefighters will also receive training on firefighting tactics and how best to use the brand-new assets.

Warrant Officer Shail, Station Fire Officer said:

“I’m delighted to receive the new vehicles on behalf of RAF Brize Norton and be the second Station across Defence to begin the training package that will conclude at the end of September when the vehicles and Crews become fully operational. The new vehicles will introduce new technology and significant advancement in tactics, techniques and procedures that will provide an improved output to the Station and begin a new chapter for the Firefighter Trade Group.”

Warrant Officer Shail
Station Fire Officer

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