Out of the DV Window
 
Interesting to reflect that the UK Government has now declared a pressing requirement to procure an aircraft capable of delivering a tactical nuclear weapon. I hear many of you clutching your pints in the local, muttering ‘Well I never. Fancy that! It’s about time.’ Without doubt the F35A is an immensely capable aircraft, albeit a bit on the expensive side. Let’s hope the Voyager fleet will be able to handle the additional AAR tasking.
 
However, the proposed acquisition of 12 of these clever single-seaters has met with almost universal acclaim and the prospect of the RAF returning to the nuclear delivery business is particularly welcomed by those of  us that used to be at the cutting edge of that capability. The bomber is back!
 
A report on this year’s reunion, generally considered to be another successful and enjoyable gathering, appears below. The visit to RAF College Cranwell went ahead as planned although the laying up of the Squadron Standard could not be carried out because St Michael’s Church was still encased in scaffolding as repairs to its roof were ongoing. As ever, I’m extremely grateful to Monty Montgomery for his excellent photo coverage of all the reunion events.
 
Elsewhere in this edition you will find Jon Tye’s recollections of display flying the Vulcan and a couple of hazy reminiscences of that infamous 1 Group Dining- In held at RAF Waddington in the late ‘60s. Also included is Kevin Lawry’s stirring poem in tribute to the late John Laycock.
 
 
Dates for the Diary
 
In the warm glow following this year's very successful get-together, now is the time to make an indelible note of the dates for our 2026 Reunion. They are Friday 8th May 2026 through to Sunday 10th May 2026. More details will be released as soon as the Committee has been able to put a programme together and make the necessary arrangements.
 
 
Annual Subscriptions
 
Please remember that annual subscriptions are due on 1st November and that the amount payable each year is £15. Subscriptions can be paid by BACS bank transfer to 44 R SQUADRON ASSOC, Sort Code 30-95-05, account number 01414860.