About
Astra is the name that has been given to the Royal Air Force's journey together, building the Next Generation RAF.
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Ad Astra or To The Stars
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The RAF of the future must be ready to face the threats and challenges of the future in our rapidly changing world, particularly with technological advancement. The RAF's ability to think differently, challenge the status quo and innovate will be fundamental to our future success.
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Air Vice-Marshal Simon Edwards MA
Air Vice-Marshal Simon Edwards took responsibility for Astra as of 2021.
Simon joined the Royal Air Force in 1990 as an Air Transport pilot, initially on the C-130J Hercules and latterly on the C-17 Globemaster, and was a Qualified Flying Instructor on the Shorts Tucano. In 2014 as Station Commander of RAF Brize Norton. he was responsible for the management of all Risks to Life involved in Air Mobility operations and military parachuting, and his staff tours in between have focused in the Joint and Capability areas at both MOD and Air Command.
Simon then worked briefly in the Cabinet Office as a policy adviser in the National Security Secretariat and completed the Higher Command and Staff Course, before taking on the role of Assistant Chief of Staff for Capability Delivery at Headquarters Air Command. In that role he completed the Major Projects Leadership Academy for high-risk, high value government projects and was the Senior Responsible Owner for a wide portfolio, including the A400M Tactical Airlifter and the United Kingdom Military Flying Training System.
In 2021, Simon was appointed the Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Strategy), overseeing the strategic coherence and coordination of the RAF; including its strategy, national and international engagements, and media and communications.
