Anti-submarine base to counter Russian threat
THE DEFENCE Secretary has said a new £132 million submarine-hunting aircraft facility is “integral” to defending the UK from the increasing threat from Russia.
Gavin Williamson yesterday cut the first turf for the new home for the Poseidon marine patrol aircraft at RAF Lossiemouth in Moray.
Due to be completed in 2020, it will house nine Poseidon planes which carry missiles able to destroy submarines.
Their key role is protect the Trident nuclear deterrent and the two new aircraft carriers and they will also be used to gather intelligence and carry out searchand-rescue missions.
The new facility will include a tactical operations centre, operational conversion unit, accommodation, training and simulation centre and an aircraft hangar. Scarboroughborn Mr Williamson said: “With Poseidon going to be arriving here from 2020, this is going to be absolutely integral in terms of our national security, in terms of dealing with the increasing threat that we’re seeing from Russia.”
The move comes as the Scottish Government sought assurances over the future of the military in Scotland, amid concerns over the future of the Royal Marines in Arbroath.
Scotland’s Economy Secretary Keith Brown said: “The Ministry of Defence is now in the midst of a further review which has resulted in speculation about the future of the Royal Marines in Arbroath.
“I urge the Defence Secretary to end those fears once and for all by providing clear assurances about Royal Marine numbers and their long-term future at RM Condor, and to confirm that there will be no further cuts to Scottish bases, personnel numbers, or their ability to carry out essential training.”
Mr Williamson described the claims as “scaremongering”.