RAF Reserves 2623 Squadron

27/03/2026

February 2026
Phase 2 Trainees Excel in Challenging Live Firing Weekend – 6-8 February 2026

Phase 2 RAuxAF Regiment Trainee Gunners braved freezing, wet, and windy conditions at Lydd Ranges from 6–8 February 2026 for a high-intensity weekend of Fieldcraft, Air Force Protection, and Live Firing Marksmanship Training (LFMT).

Facing distances of up to 300 metres and firing from alternative positions for the first time, the trainees rose to the challenge, with the majority acing the Annual Combat Marksmanship Test (ACMT). Their outstanding performance showcased not only natural talent but also the impact of expert coaching from the Squadron Training Team, whose guidance helped trainees excel under demanding conditions.

The training was a vital step in preparing for Exercise OMEGA (R) in March, reinforcing the importance of resilience, teamwork, and technical skill in building an operationally ready force.

27/03/2026

January 2026
Burns night – British Embassy (Tunisia)
A huge congratulations to Sgt Stephen Birch, who did Scotland proud as the lone piper for the Burns Night celebration at the British Embassy in Tunisia on 30 January 2026. Stepping in at the last minute, he proved that not all heroes wear capes—some wear kilts! With his professionalism, adaptability, and a performance that would make Rabbie Burns himself shed a tear, Sgt Birch brought immense credit to both himself and his unit.
The Ambassador was highly impressed by his character, humility, and musical talent, expressing a desire for his return to perform at the King’s Birthday Party in June. Sgt Birch’s poise, confidence, and ceremonial presence left a lasting impression on attendees, elevating the event’s prestige and enhancing the Royal Air Force’s and Defence Section’s reputation. Well done, Sgt Birch—ye’ve done us all proud!

27/03/2026

2623 Squadron Explores Cutting-Edge Capabilities at 617 Squadron – 17 January 2026

2623 Squadron visited 617 Squadron at RAF Marham on 17 January 2026, home to the F-35B Lightning II – one of the world’s most advanced 5th-generation stealth fighters.

As part of their Force Development programme, squadron members took part in detailed briefings and a hands-on tour of the aircraft, gaining rare insight into its engineering, operations, and the high-level skills required to fly and maintain it.

The visit underlined the importance of Force Development in the modern military, giving personnel first-hand experience of cutting-edge technology, operational excellence, and the teamwork needed to maintain a ready and capable force.

By stepping into the world of 617 Squadron, 2623 Squadron members saw how training, technology, and operational knowledge come together to deliver peak performance – reinforcing the vital role of continuous learning and development in sustaining operational advantage.

27/03/2026

January 2026
2623 Squadron Completes Close Quarters Battle Training Weekend

From 16–18 January 2026, 2623 Squadron took part in an intensive Close Quarters Battle (CQB) training weekend at the Complex Air Ground Environment (CAGE) facility at RAF Honington. The CAGE provides a realistic and challenging environment that helps prepare personnel for global operations, simulating high-pressure scenarios they may face in the field.

CQB is a fast-paced, small-unit combat tactic used in confined spaces, such as buildings or urban areas. It relies on speed, surprise, and decisive action, with teams coordinating rapid movements to breach rooms, clear areas, and neutralize threats safely and efficiently.

Phase 3 personnel honed their CQB skills in realistic operational conditions, testing their decision-making and resilience under pressure. The training reinforced the importance of quick thinking, teamwork, and effective action to achieve mission objectives while minimizing risk.

Meanwhile, Phase 2 students participated in a three-day field exercise at the RAF Honington Field Training Area, continuing their development in essential fieldcraft skills.

This training weekend highlighted 2623 Squadron’s commitment to operational readiness, ensuring its personnel are prepared to respond effectively in any environment.

27/03/2026

Congratulations
It’s a matter of great pride to serve on 2623 Squadron, and recent achievements highlight the professionalism and dedication within the unit—congratulations to those recognised.

Cpl Scott was awarded a Chief of the Air Staff Commendation, presented by Air Marshal Suraya Marshall, Assistant Chief of the Air Staff, at RAF Northolt. After being first on the scene of a serious road traffic accident, he quickly took control, delivering life-saving first aid to an injured motorcyclist. His calm and decisive actions prevented the situation from deteriorating and ensured a smooth and effective handover to the emergency services.

Cpl Gibbons was also recognised for his outstanding contribution, receiving a commendation from Lieutenant Colonel Archer, Commanding Officer, 6 Regiment Army Air Corps. Presented by OC 20 FP Wing, the award acknowledged his vital support in delivering critical courses in direct support of 1 Aviation Brigade, significantly enhancing operational capability.

27/03/2026

December 2025
Mandatory Training and Live Firing Marksmanship Training (LFMT) – 5–7 December 2025

Personnel from 2623 Squadron continued their Generic Mandatory Training, completing requirements such as Fire Training, Security Training, RAFFT, and other essential competencies.

Phase 2 students also undertook Live Firing Marksmanship Training (LFMT), which included Rifle LF 4 and 5 on the Honington 25m range, forming part of their initial rifle progression.

Annual Christmas Function – 6 December 2025

2623 Squadron also hosted their annual Christmas function and dining-in night at Squadron HQ, embracing a lively “Superheroes and Villains” theme. The evening proved a great success, with personnel fully committing to the occasion—some costumes were so convincing it was hard to tell where the characters ended and reality began.

The event provided an excellent opportunity to thank all squadron members, past and present, along with attached personnel, for their valuable contributions throughout 2025.

27/03/2026

Remembrance Service at West Suffolk College – 5 November 2025
West Suffolk College hosted an outdoor Remembrance Service at its Built Environment campus, bringing together staff, students, and the local community to honour those who served in times of conflict. Sqn Ldr Taylor, Commanding Officer 2623 Sqn and Cpl Henty (Sqn Clerk) attended, highlighting the strong relationship between the college and the armed forces.
A key moment of the event was the unveiling of the largest temporary VE and VJ memorial, created by the college’s construction students. This striking tribute symbolised unity and gratitude for the sacrifices of past generations. The ceremony provided a poignant opportunity for reflection and reinforced the importance of remembrance within the community.

27/03/2026

November 2025
Fieldcraft and Navigation Training – 15–16 November 2025

RAF Honington and Barnham Training Area (BTA) hosted a weekend of fieldcraft and navigation training for Phase 2 and Phase 3 personnel. The programme included a range of activities such as daytime and night navigation exercises, harbour drills, introductory signals instruction, core fieldcraft techniques, fire team battle drills, and elements drawn from the Phase 2 syllabus.
The main aim was to prepare Phase 2 RAuxAF Regiment Trainee Gunners (TGs) for Exercise OMEGA (R), strengthening their skills and ensuring they are ready to graduate as RAuxAF Regiment Gunners.

Phase 3 personnel also participated, using the opportunity to refresh and further develop their abilities in navigation, communication, and fieldcraft.

Overall, the weekend was marked by strong commitment, skill development, and opportunities for personal reflection as participants applied their training in realistic conditions. It also fostered a strong sense of camaraderie, with shared challenges—from managing blisters to overcoming the uncertainty of night navigation—bringing the group closer together.

27/03/2026

It’s been a busy five months for 2623 RAuxAF Regiment Squadron following its return from Exercise Southern Sunrise in the Falkland Islands. Since then, the Squadron has maintained a high tempo of training, focusing on developing Phase 2 and Phase 3 Gunners.

Through a structured programme covering fieldcraft, navigation, weapons handling, and force protection, personnel continue to build and maintain core skills. This reflects the requirement for the Royal Air Force Regiment Reserves to meet the same standards as their Regular counterparts.

With around 27 training days a year, Squadron members balance civilian careers with military commitments, ensuring they remain ready to deploy and operate alongside full-time forces in protecting RAF assets at home and overseas.

Keep an eye out for updates from the past five months—they’ll be posted shortly.

26/03/2026

🔴⚪️🔵 The Honington Herald Spring 26 edition is here!
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25/11/2025

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