Opening the first Aries of 2026, I want to reflect on a busy December that demonstrated not just DCASO’s momentum, but the strength of the entire RAF Shawbury community. Despite the seasonal compression, the Station’s engagement, professionalism and generosity of spirit were unmistakable. Our teams enabled a programme of engagements, not as isolated events, but as a continuous expression of service and connection across Shropshire. To everyone across the RAF Shawbury Whole Force community: thank you. Your professionalism, generosity and esprit de corps carried us through a demanding December and into 2026 with determination and grace. Transitioning into 2026, the busy pace endures, we continue to deliver with confidence and professionalism, proud of what we have achieved together, and ready for what’s to come. By Wing Commander Chris Jacob MA BSc(Hons) PG Dip RAF – Officer Commanding Defence College of Air and Space Operations

Hello everyone, and I am delighted to welcome you to the Spring Edition of your Honington Herald. Edition number three for me since arriving in July. Like me, I’m sure you’re contemplating that now-distant summer heat and long sunny days. As I write this, we have had the longest, dampest spell that I can remember, but it will not last; indeed, it is already noticeable that the daylight hours have started to lengthen, and the promise of spring is tangible. We are on the cusp of what I hope will be a wonderful spring. The spring will see the ESS-sponsored ‘Monster Event’, the planning for which is developing well (stand by for the advertising campaign), and there will doubtless be lots of Mess functions across the ranks. I will deliberately repeat myself here: we are so lucky to have these opportunities, and I implore you to exploit every advantage afforded to you during your precious time at Honington. Look after yourself, and do look after each other. By the Station Commander, Wing Commander Mark Hinde MBA BSc (Hons) RAF

Welcome to the Spring edition of Wittering View and our first issue of 2026. As we look ahead to the year, this edition also reflects on some important moments from recent months and the people who made them happen. We begin the year with the arrival of a new Station Commander (page 6), marking a fresh chapter for RAF Wittering, while building on the strong foundations already in place. Over the winter period, the station enjoyed a busy Christmas programme (page 7), alongside well‑supported Remembrance parades (page 8), both highlighting the strong sense of community and shared values across the station.