RAF Waddington has delivered a series of highly successful community engagement activities as part of Exercise COBRA WARRIOR 26-1, reinforcing strong local relationships and highlighting the multinational cooperation central to the exercise.
This year, the station is hosting Polish Air Force F-16s and German Air Force Eurofighter Typhoons for the duration of the exercise, demonstrating the continued commitment of NATO partners to collective defence and interoperability.
The engagement programme included a visit to 2160 (Sleaford) Squadron Air Cadets, where four members of the German Air Force joined RAF personnel for an evening of talks and discussion. The cadets were given insight into the scale and complexity of Cobra Warrior, including the extensive planning required behind the scenes.
“Hearing the detailed explanation about Cobra Warrior, including what the exercise involves and the extensive planning and coordination required behind the scenes, was fascinating for our cadets. It helped them gain an insight into the organisation needed for such a major military exercise.”
Flt Lt Karen
OC 2160 (Sleaford) Squadron Air Cadets
The cadets left the event “buzzing,” having found the visit exciting, inspiring, and memorable.
Further outreach took place at a local school, where RAF Waddington personnel met pupils to discuss the exercise. Children, including military child ambassadors, were eager to learn about the different nations operating from the station.
“It was really interesting to hear about how many countries are coming here for Cobra Warrior and see the types of planes they have brought with them.”
School Pupil
The visit provided young people with a rare opportunity to understand more about the RAF’s international partnerships and the aircraft taking part.
RAF Waddington also hosted the Cobra Warrior Aviation Enthusiasts Event, attracting visitors from across the region. The event allowed attendees to meet RAF and international aircrew while gaining close access to static displays and flight lines. The enthusiasm and strong turnout helped raise £2,500 for the Station Charities Committee, supporting a range of causes across the station community.
During the event, Group Captain Warner, Station Commander at RAF Waddington, presented a Station Commander’s Commendation to Emma, Andy, and John from the Waddington Aircraft Viewing Enclosure (WAVE).
Their longstanding dedication to supporting the aviation community and fostering positive engagement with RAF Waddington was formally recognised. Emma and Andy have played a pivotal role in coordinating the Cobra Warrior Aviation Enthusiasts Events, including compiling vetted guest lists and supporting safe and effective public engagement. Together with John, they have also contributed significantly to fundraising efforts for the Station Charities Committee.
Their professionalism, commitment, and community spirit have had a lasting and positive impact on RAF Waddington and its wider aviation community, making them highly deserving recipients of the Station Commander’s Commendation.
