THE future of RAF Wittering was due to become clear today as Defence Minister Geoff Hoon set out modernisation plans for the armed services.
Mr Hoon was expected to announce that the airbase, near Peterborough, will take 600 more staff – boosting personnel at the base by almost a third to 2,100.
It would mean logistics air combat service support units (ACSSUs), based at RAF Stafford, a
nd a minor unit from West Drayton will relocate to Wittering over the next two years.
The aim behind the move would be to bring similar units together.
Mr Hoon was also making an announcement about the future of the RAF's Rapier missiles, a short-range air defence system.
The No 37 Squadron RAF Regiment, which specialises in the Rapier, is based at Wittering and has 120 servicemen. But it is believed the Rapier could be switched from the RAF to the army, meaning the regiment would be moved away from Wittering.
Mr Hoon was also giving details of the deployment of the F35B Joint Strike Fighter, which is due to replace the Sea Harrier in 2012.
Tony Walsh, spokesman for RAF Wittering, said: "If we were to lose the No 37 Squadron RAF Regiment, we are still getting another 600 personnel in. The minister has announced he is inclined to that option and we are hoping this will be confirmed."
