In each issue, we strive to curate content that not only informs but also inspires, challenges and connects each and everyone of you to station life. In this edition I am delighted to share all our news, exploring how it shapes our world and how we in turn shape it. We pride ourselves in being able to tell you our stories, giving an insight into the RAF’s largest station. This issue comes with exciting news: a brand-new series of Top Guns (you may have seen Top Guns 1 & 2) is being filmed right here on station. We are thrilled to be at the heart of this creative journey and even more excited to be able to share this with you all. It’s not every day that a production of this scale sets up in our own backyard and we can’t wait for you to see the finished product – I will keep you all posted.

Welcome to the summer edition of Envoy! As the sun (hopefully!) shines and schools break up, we know this season brings a unique rhythm to RAF life. For many, summer is synonymous with the ‘moving season’ – new schools, settling into new accommodation, and navigating the familiar flurry of activity that comes with relocation – doctors, dentists... we get it! While the warmer weather might lift spirits, it certainly doesn’t magically resolve the practical challenges our families face. We want to reassure you that the RAF Families Federation is acutely aware that issues with Service Family Accommodation (SFA) don’t take a summer break just because the sun is out. Whether it’s concerns about maintenance, the moving process itself, or settling into a new home, we remain steadfast in our focus on representing your lived experiences to the Chain of Command and the relevant authorities.

A highlight for the Station this Spring has been the arrival of the Typhoon on the Henderson Parade Ground. Inevitably some people will be sad to say farewell to Tornado XZ630, which has stood watch over thousands of Aviators graduating into the RAF since 2004, but it is an honour that RAF Halton was selected as the new home for Typhoon JZ911. It has been a fantastic whole force effort involving our contractors and Service personnel from Halton and other units to remove the Tornado and replace it with the Typhoon. It was a huge relief for everyone involved that the Typhoon fitted successfully onto its new plinths and was in place ready for the graduation of Beckett intake on 2 April, which was reviewed by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton. There has been a lot of interest on social media in the change of aircraft, with the time lapse video proving particularly popular. If you have not seen the clips yet and are interested then take a look at the RAF Halton Facebook or Instagram sites.