Hill AFB hosts RAF Tornado Training Squadron

  • Published
  • 75th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah --  A Royal Air Force Tornado Training Squadron from RAF Lossiemouth in Northern Scotland has been operating out of Hill AFB for the last three weeks and is utilizing the Utah Test and Training Range to drop a variety of weapons.

The Tornado is a twin seat, all-weather, advanced low-level strike platform and is in its thirty-first year of operational service with the RAF. It has flown operational missions in both gulf wars, the Libyan conflict in 2012 and is currently operating in Afghanistan.

The Squadron's eight Tornado aircraft completed nearly 120 sorties while detached to Hill AFB. There are about 200 personnel detached with the Squadron, including staff and student aircrew. The Squadron is commanded by Wing Commander Jonathan Nixon and the detachment project officer is Squadron Leader David Tait.

Many of the detachment personnel have made the most of the opportunity of being in Utah by undertaking adventurous training activities such as skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, climbing and simulated sky diving. Personnel have also visited local tourist attractions including the Utah State Capitol Building and Temple Square in Salt Lake City.

This is the second time the Squadron has been detached to Hill AFB. The last time was spring 2013.