RAF Valley based 208(R) Squadron have unveiled a brand new Hawk TMk1 livery to commemorate their 100th Anniversary.
The fin, featuring the squadron’s distinctive yellow and blue colour scheme, draws on a number of ideas submitted by squadron personnel and was created by the SERCO paintshop team on the Anglesey base.
Wing Commander Chris Kidd, Officer Commanding 208(R) Sqn said: “This has been a real team effort, from the design, through the project management to the finished product. I would like to thank Squadron Leaders Dan Arlett and James Taylor-Head, Babcock, BAE Systems and SERCO for all their efforts. I am extremely proud of the squadron and this tailfin is a fitting tribute to our 100 years of history.
The distinctive yellow and blue aircraft markings were first used during the inter-war years and are a reflection of 208(R) Squadron’s long association with the Middle East. The blue for the sky, the yellow for the sands of the desert, and the squadron crest depicts the sphinx at Gizeh in Egypt. The motto of the Squadron is ‘Vigilant’.
No. 208(R) Squadron Royal Air Force was formed on 25 October 1916 as No. 8 (Naval) Squadron, Royal Naval Air Service. During WW1 the squadron flew Sopwith Pups, Nieuport Scouts and Sopwith Camels and was assigned to artillery spotting duties. When the Royal Air Force was formed on 1 April 1918, the unit was renumbered to No. 208 Squadron RAF. The squadron is now based at RAF Valley in Anglesey, North Wales operating BAE Hawk TMk1 aircraft in the advanced flying training and tactical weapons role, training fast jet pilots from the RAF and Royal Navy to front line operational conversion unit input standard. The squadron also trains international students; an important role in terms of coalition-building and defence diplomacy.
208(R) Sqn will celebrate their 100th Anniversary later this year at RAF Valley. All ex serving and association members are invited to attend. Details of the event can be obtained via social media or by contacting the 208(R) Squadron Adjutant at RAF Valley.
Editor: Sqn Ldr Williams
Photographs:
Sqn new 100 year tail Fin.
© MOD Crown Copyright 2016
