As we welcome the spring edition of the Apprentice Magazine, I am pleased to reflect on a period of progress, celebration and shared success across RAF Cosford. This edition showcases the energy, professionalism and commitment that continue to define our apprentice community and the wider Station. I hope you enjoy this edition and share my pride in the talent, passion and professionalism displayed throughout. My thanks go to everyone who contributed, participated and continues to represent RAF Cosford with such dedication.

RAF Coningsby is renowned for its professionalism, commitment and pursuit for greatness, and to have the opportunity to lead you is a greatly thrilling prospect. I am looking forward to meeting as many of you as possible and making new connections whilst reconnecting with past friends. Over the past few months, I know there has been lots of activity, both here at home and in the global landscape, and that you have all been extremely busy supporting and delivering operational output to the highest standards. I am extremely proud of your efforts and to that end, please accept my sincere thanks and gratitude for your unfaltering commitment and dedication. The last three months has seen a wide range of activities taking place, both at home and abroad, to continue delivering Air Power and assuring our National Interests. 3(Fighter) Squadron continued their role as part of NATO’s Eastern Sentry air defence mission, conducting sorties over Eastern Europe to combat Russian drone incursions and provocations. This underscores our strong commitment to National and Global security through offensive and defensive air operations alongside our allies. 3(Fighter) Squadron also engaged in Exercise RED FLAG 26-1 through January - February, one of the world’s most demanding multinational air combat training events. Together with allied forces including the US and Royal Australian Air Force, we tested and honed our modern combat skills in high-intensity simulated conditions while broadening our level of expertise. Back at home, RAF Coningsby had the privilege to host Swedish Air Force personnel and two Saab JAS 39D Gripens at the end of November. The visit was focused around enhancing NATO’s Electronic warfare capabilities and highlighted the RAF’s commitment to increased cooperation with our NATO partners. We have also recently started undergoing essential airfield infrastructure upgrades to strengthen our taxiways and aprons areas, a key measure in maintaining our vital station capabilities.

Time has a way of slipping past us. One moment we are closing the final pages of last year and the next we are welcoming the first issue of 2026. The pace can be dizzying, but it also reminds us why moments of pause and reflection matter. A new year always arrives with a quiet challenge; to look ahead without forgetting where we’ve been. As we bring you the first station magazine of 2026, that balance feels especially meaningful. This issue is all about momentum, ideas that are taking shape and the shifts within station that will lead to lasting change. Across this edition you’ll find all the latest stories, celebration of station successes and reflect on what is coming not just as it is. Magazines have always been places to pause. In a time that moves faster than ever, I hope this issue gives you space to think, to feel and to be inspired. Whether you are reading cover to cover or dipping in between moments of a busy day, our aim is simple, to offer an insight into the RAF’s largest and busiest RAF Station.