November night flying exercises set for RAF Wittering

Residents living around RAF Wittering have been warned to expect an increase in aircraft activity at night next week.

A Night Vision Goggles training exercise is set to start on Monday, November 19 and could continue into the early hours of the morning on Friday, November 23.

The exercise will involve a C-17 Globemaster, a long range, heavy-lift transport aircraft that can operate close to a potential area of operations for combat, peacekeeping or humanitarian missions.

A spokesman said: "Royal Air Force Wittering is reaching out to its neighbours and the nearby equestrian establishments to inform them of a change to the usual pattern of flying activity.

"Operating under the cover of night is essential in modern military operations."

The spokesman said Night Vision Goggles were a tactical advantage that enabled crews to land and take-off safely during the hours of darkness.

Night Vision Goggle training is a method of conducting night flying without lights on an airfield.

"Crews wear equipment which enhances ambient light conditions, allowing the RAF to operate into hostile or sparsely populated areas," said the spokesman.

"RAF Wittering is one of several stations that supports night flying; a variety of airfields and environments gives crews a breadth of experience and ensures that no single area is unduly burdened."